The composer Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart lived during which century?
And the answer: the 1700s.
Born in 1756, Mozart lived until the age of 35. Having written an incredible 600 compositions in multiple genres, he's best known for Eine Kleine Nachtmusik, the operas The Magic Flute and Don Giovanni, and his 41 symphonies.
Mozart is commonly remembered as one of the greatest musical minds. The composer was first introduced to the world of music by his father, Leopold Mozart, who was a professional musician himself. At age 5, young Mozart had already composed his first piece. At age 6, he began touring the courts of Europe with his sister, showing off his keyboard skills, violin playing, and ability to compose and improvise. By age 10, he was an internationally acclaimed child star.
Playing across Germany, in Paris, and London, audiences and scientists alike were baffled by Mozart’s incredible ability. In fact, while the young star was in London, he underwent scientific testing to confirm that he was in fact a child musician and not just a very talented, small adult. Meanwhile, at age 11, Mozart was already writing his first opera.
Beyond his musical talent, Mozart was also known for his raucous, and often boisterous, attitude. Outside of the prestigious English courts, Mozart never quite lost his childish side, a fact which can be read in his letters to family members and in cheeky musical pieces, such as the one entitled "Leck mich im Arsch" (the translation of which you, uh, might want to look up on your own time).
Forty-one symphonies, 22 operas, and 38+ concertos later, Mozart passed away at just age 35. Within his vast collection of works lay simple melodies infused with complexity, many of which remain timeless and well-loved even today.
Learn more about the genius below.
