Our Journal
Exploring the Evidence
Mozart’s K 71: A Fragment Shrouded in Doubt and Uncertainty
Mozart’s K 71, an incomplete aria, is yet another example of musical ambiguity. The fragment’s authorship, dating, and even its very existence as a genuine Mozart work remain open to question. With no definitive evidence, how can this fragment be so confidently attributed to him?
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.
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.
Mozart’s K 73A: A Mystery Wrapped in Ambiguity
K.143 is a prime example of how Mozart scholarship has turned uncertainty into myth. With no definitive evidence of authorship, date, or purpose, this uninspired recitative and aria in G major likely originated elsewhere. Is it time to admit this is not Mozart’s work at all?
A Farce of Honour in Mozart’s Time
By the time Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart received the Speron d’Oro, the once esteemed honour had become a laughable trinket, awarded through networking and influence rather than merit. Far from reflecting his musical genius, the title, shared with figures like Casanova, symbolised ridicule rather than respect.
The Legend of Mozart’s Miserere
The enduring popularity of the narrative surrounding Mozart’s Miserere highlights the allure of the prodigy myth, but as we peel back the layers, we uncover a more nuanced picture of his life and the musical landscape of the time. The reality often contrasts sharply with the romanticized tales that have shaped our understanding of his genius.
Rediscovering Musical Roots: The World Premiere of Gasparini and Mysliveček
This December, history will come alive as the Camerata Rousseau unveils forgotten treasures by Quirino Gasparini and Josef Mysliveček. These premieres not only celebrate their artistry but also reveal the untold influence of Gasparini on Mozart’s Mitridate re di Ponto. A pivotal event for anyone passionate about rediscovering music history.
The Curious Case of Mozart’s Phantom Sonata
In a striking case of artistic misattribution, the Musikwissenschaft has rediscovered Mozart through a portrait, attributing a dubious composition to him based solely on a score’s presence. One has to wonder: is this music really Mozart’s, or just a figment of our collective imagination?
The Illusion of Canonic Mastery
This post explores the simplistic nature of Mozart’s Kyrie K.89, revealing the truth behind his early canonic compositions and their implications on his perceived genius.