MozartrazoM
Georg Nissen and the Missing Notebooks
Article written by H. S. Brockmeyer
After Mozart’s death, his widow, Constanze, found a steadfast partner in Georg Nikolaus von Nissen, a Danish diplomat who dedicated his life to preserving the composer’s legacy. Nissen not only compiled an extensive biography of Mozart but also uncovered and safeguarded many of his compositions. Driven by a deep admiration for Mozart, Nissen even embarked on a secret investigation into the mysterious circumstances of the composer’s death, a pursuit that reflects his unwavering commitment to uncovering the truth.
“Nissen certainly realized the dangers of exposing the murder should it have been
perpetrated by a powerful group with deep connections to the Court.”
Echoes of a Distant Crime: Resolving the Mozart Cold Case File
After the death of the legendary composer Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, his widow, Constanze, remarried in 1809 to Georg Nikolaus von Nissen, a Danish diplomat and passionate admirer of Mozart’s work. This union not only provided stability for Constanze and her children but also set in motion one of the most remarkable efforts to preserve Mozart’s legacy.
Georg Nicolaus Nissen after painting by Jagemann.
Nissen was a man of diverse talents—a poet, amateur musician, and, above all, a devoted supporter of Mozart. His deep respect for the composer led him to compile an extensive biography of Mozart, a monumental work that spanned over 900 pages and was published posthumously in 1829. Nissen’s dedication to this project consumed much of his life, as he meticulously collected documents, letters, and musical scores, often working late into the night.
Yet, Nissen’s efforts went beyond mere biography. He discovered hundreds of Mozart’s compositions hidden in a closet in Constanze’s apartment, which he carefully cataloged and sold, ensuring that these masterpieces would not be lost to history.
Interestingly, Nissen also harbored suspicions regarding the mysterious circumstances surrounding Mozart’s death. In his final years, he pursued a private investigation, corresponding with close friends and seeking to uncover what he believed was a potential murder plot. His determination to reveal the truth was so profound that, in a secret letter to his stepson Wolfgang, Nissen urged him to continue this investigation after his death, warning of the dangers involved and even involving the King of Denmark as a witness to his testament.
Georg Nikolaus von Nissen’s Letter in 1826 to Step-son Wolfgang Xaver
to Expose Mozart’s Violent End
Image reproduced with permission from the Mozarteum Foundation.
Nissen’s legacy is a testament to his unwavering dedication to Mozart and his relentless pursuit of the truth. Though his final investigation into Mozart’s death remains inconclusive, his contributions to preserving and promoting the composer’s work are invaluable, making him an integral figure in the history of classical music.
To delve deeper into this fascinating story about Georg Nikolaus von Nissen and his connection to Mozart, you can download the full document from the link below.
You May Also Like
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.