Teaching Mozart at Bocconi University
A Fresh Look at Word and Music
We delivered a four-hour lecture on Mozart at Bocconi University, showcasing unpublished music by Gasparini, Gatti, and Tozzi while comparing textual and musical treatment with Mozart’s works. Unseen variants from Le Nozze di Figaro were also revealed.
Mozart: The Fall of the Gods
This book offers a fresh and critical look at the life of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, challenging the myths that have surrounded him for centuries. We strip away the romanticised image of the “natural genius” and delve into the contradictions within Mozart’s extensive biographies. Backed by nearly 2,000 meticulously sourced citations, this work invites readers to explore a deeper, more complex understanding of Mozart. Perfect for those who wish to question the traditional narrative, this biography is a must-read for serious music lovers and historians.
"Unseen musical and textual variants from Le Nozze di Figaro manuscripts, presented for the first time, brought a fresh perspective to Mozart’s treatment of words and music."
@MozartrazoM
We recently had the honour of giving a four-hour lecture on Mozart at the prestigious Bocconi University in Milan. The lecture focused on the intricate relationship between words and music, delving into how composers of the Classical Period treated texts in their operas. We were excited to present previously unheard music by Quirino Gasparini, Luigi Gatti, and Giuseppe Tozzi, comparing their treatment of texts with that of their contemporary, Mozart.
The lesson also explored the textual challenges found in Mozart’s works, particularly focusing on previously unpublished variants of both text and music. These variants were sourced directly from manuscripts of the first performance of Le Nozze di Figaro in Vienna, shedding new light on this iconic work. The lecture was met with great enthusiasm, as a large group of students actively engaged with the discussion and the unique materials we presented.
You May Also Like
Unveiling the Truth Behind the Drawing
H. S. Brockmeyer’s latest research unravels the mystery behind a July 5, 1791, letter from Mozart to his wife. This remarkable investigation uncovers the original, unembellished drawing Mozart included—vastly different from the altered version widely reproduced in collections today. The discovery raises significant questions about historical accuracy and the intentional shaping of Mozart’s legacy.
The Deceptive Nature of Mozart’s Catalogue
The Thematic Catalogue traditionally credited to Mozart is fraught with inaccuracies, suggesting that many of his famous works might not be his at all. This prompts a necessary reevaluation of Mozart’s legacy and the authenticity of his compositions.
The Mozart Myth Unveiled: A Deeper Look
Mozart’s legacy is far from the untarnished narrative of genius that history would have us believe. The web of deceit woven around his name by those closest to him, including his own widow, reveals a much darker story.
The Other Side of Mozart’s Legacy
Explore the untold story of Mozart, where myth and reality collide. Our critical examination of his life and works reveals a legacy shaped by profit, myth-making, and misattribution. Join us in uncovering the truth behind the man and his music.
The Deception Surrounding Mozart’s Legacy
Anton Eberl’s confrontation with Constanze in 1798 exposed a web of deceit surrounding Mozart’s legacy, revealing that several of his compositions were falsely attributed to the late composer. This chapter uncovers the ethical dilemmas and controversies that have marred the posthumous reputation of one of history’s most celebrated musicians.
Leopold’s Invisible Hand
Behind the glittering performances of young Wolfgang and Nannerl Mozart lay the meticulous guidance of their father, Leopold. Often considered a mere teacher, Leopold’s role in composing and shaping their early musical successes has been largely overlooked. Was the child prodigy truly a genius, or was it Leopold who orchestrated his son’s rise to fame?