Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart (1756-1791) was a world-renowned Austrian composer, one of the most prolific and influential figures in the history of Western music. Born in Salzburg, in the Holy Roman Empire (now part of Austria), Mozart showed prodigious talent from an early age. By the age of five, he was composing pieces for harpsichord and violin, and at six, he began touring across Europe, performing for royalty and nobility.
Mozart composed over 600 works in a wide range of genres, including symphonies, concertos, operas, chamber music, and sonatas. Some of his most famous works include the "Jupiter" and "Prague" symphonies, piano and violin concertos, and operas such as "The Marriage of Figaro," "Don Giovanni," and "The Magic Flute." His music is renowned for its melodic beauty, harmonic innovation, and extraordinary structural complexity.
Despite his talent and early success, Mozart's life was marked by financial and personal difficulties. He moved to Vienna in 1781, hoping to find greater opportunities, and although he achieved some fame and important commissions, he was never able to secure financial stability for himself and his family.
Mozart died prematurely on December 5, 1791, at the age of only 35. The cause of his death remains a subject of speculation, but it is believed to have been an infectious disease. He was buried in a common grave at the St. Marx Cemetery in Vienna, as was customary at the time.
Mozart's legacy continues to live on through his music, which remains a cornerstone of the classical repertoire. His ability to express a wide range of emotions and innovate within traditional musical forms has made him a central figure in the history of music. His influence can be seen in many later composers, and his music continues to be performed and loved worldwide.