the deconstruction of a myth
Mozart in Reverse
In the introduction to Mozart’s biography, penned by Constanze Mozart’s second husband, Nissen, it is surprisingly asserted that it’s preferable to conceal the truth, lest Mozart’s image be tarnished.
One does not want, nor can one publicly show their hero as he presented himself in the shadow of privacy; if he could be questioned, he himself would hardly admit it. He was and remains the master of his words, which he could have left unwritten and which he only wrote for the person with whom he wanted to confide. He had weaknesses, shortcomings, which he partly improved later and which one will not have the occasion to reveal. Through the whole truth, his fame, his esteem, and the impression of his works may be damaged.
Ultimately, we don’t believe in hiding the truth, and so we let the primary sources speak.
Who We Are
MozartrazoM is a project by musicologists Luca Bianchini and Anna Trombetta.
The site aims to challenge the traditional narratives surrounding Mozart and his family, offering a critical and often controversial perspective that contrasts with the mainstream glorification of the composer.
In addition, these pages also host some of the finest musicological and critical contributions from other authors who refuse to tell fairy tales and are dedicated to seeking the truth by rigorously investigating the sources.
L.Bianchini & A.Trombetta
Our Books
With a meticulous approach, these books delve deep into investigation, rejecting hearsay. Sources are meticulously verified and critically examined, particularly primary sources, which undergo rigorous scrutiny and evaluation.
Latest Articles
Explore the flaws, contradictions, and lesser-known truths behind one of history’s most celebrated composers.
Unpacking Mozart’s Early Education
The story of Ligniville illustrates the pitfalls of romanticizing Mozart’s early life and education, reminding us that the narrative of genius is often a construct that obscures the laborious aspects of musical development.
Mozart’s Training
The myth of Mozart’s genius is nothing more than a carefully crafted illusion, propped up by misplaced attributions and romanticised biographies. Behind his so-called brilliance lies the reality of his father’s dominating influence and a lack of formal education.
The False Sonnet of Corilla Olimpica
Leopold Mozart’s relentless pursuit of fame for his son Wolfgang led to questionable tactics, including fabricating a sonnet by the renowned poetess Corilla Olimpica. This desperate attempt to elevate Wolfgang’s reputation casts a shadow over the Mozart legacy.
#3 Leopold Mozart’s Literary Theft
Hidden within the Mozarteum’s archives lies a poem that has long been hailed as a tribute to the young Mozart children. But behind this innocent façade is a story of deception, literary theft, and one father’s ambition to rewrite history.
Letters Under Surveillance
In a world without privacy, Leopold Mozart’s letters were carefully crafted not just to inform but to manipulate perceptions. His correspondence reveals a calculated effort to elevate his family’s status while avoiding any mention of failure or controversy.
Debunking the Romantic Virtuoso Image
The image of Mozart as a Romantic-era virtuoso is a misleading anachronism, fuelled by 19th-century propaganda. Wolfgang was no transcendental pianist, but a product of an era where music was more galant than heroic.
Events
Discover the latest interviews, talks, and behind-the-scenes insights into the untold story of Mozart.
The Mozart Question
In this revealing interview, we delve into the lesser-known aspects of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart’s life, challenging the long-standing myth of his genius. A Swedish journalist explores how Mozart’s legacy has been shaped and manipulated over time, shedding light on the crucial role played by his father, Leopold, in crafting the career of the famed composer.
International Traetta Award
We are thrilled to announce that the 14th International Traetta Award has been bestowed upon Anna Trombetta and Luca Bianchini. This prestigious recognition honours their outstanding dedication to musicological research on primary sources of the European musical repertoire, offering significant contributions to reshaping the historiography of 18th-century music.
In the Spotlight
Are you ready to meet the real Mozart? Our videos, like our posts, will take you on a journey of discovery
into his life and works, without censorship or idealisation.
#3 Leopold Mozart’s Literary Theft
Hidden within the Mozarteum’s archives lies a poem that has long been hailed as a tribute to the young Mozart children. But behind this innocent façade is a story of deception, literary theft, and one father’s ambition to rewrite history.
#2 The Hidden Truth of Mozart’s Education
In this video, we uncover the hidden truth behind Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart’s early education and challenge the long-held belief in his effortless genius. While history often celebrates Mozart as a child prodigy, effortlessly composing music from a young age, the reality is far more complex.
#1 A Man of Cunning
In the end, Leopold Mozart’s life was a testament to survival in a world where his talents were often overshadowed by those of his more gifted contemporaries and his own son. While his “Violinschule” remains a notable contribution to music pedagogy, it is clear that Leopold’s legacy is as much about his ability to navigate the challenges of his time as it is about his musical achievements. His story is one of ambition, adaptation, and the lengths to which one man would go to secure his place in history, even if that place was built on borrowed foundations.
@MozartrazoM
What Experts Say
Roberto Piana
professor
What a fantastic evening! I was once again impressed by the deep expertise of Luca Bianchini and Anna Trombetta, and by their remarkable ability to clarify and simplify some of the most delicate and complex aspects of the Mozart story.
Alberto Basso
musicologist
In this field, driven by the enthusiasm of those who explore new worlds and are aware of the uncommon value of their work, the discoverers of that score, Anna Trombetta and Luca Bianchini, embarked on a broad-ranging research journey.
Edoardo Catemario
Concert Artist
With Mozart: The Fall of the Gods, you have completely changed my way of thinking
Roberto Piana
professor
I consider Bianchini and Trombetta among the most skilled and courageous truth-seekers in the field.
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