Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart
Known as one of the most brilliant child prodigies who ever lived, young Mozart began composing his own music at the age of four! By six, Mozart was already performing for kings and queens all over Europe. Mozart lived to be only 35, but during his short life he wrote more than 600 pieces of music.
While he was growing up, Mozart worked hard to learn about things he loved. When he wasn't studying music, Mozart loved math, and used chalk to write numbers all over the walls and furniture of his room!
Mozart may be one of the greatest composers of all time, but that doesn't mean he was always serious. In fact, many people thought even the grown-up Mozart was childish and silly. Once, while performing at a friend's house, Mozart suddenly jumped up, turned somersaults, and leaped over tables and chairs while meowing like a cat! Another time, he snuck up on a singer and grabbed her by surprise to get her to scream just right for an opera performance. While playing one of his tricky piano pieces, Mozart once bent over and used his nose to play an especially difficult note!
Mozart achieved some success during his lifetime, but much of his music did not become famous until after his death. He always had to struggle to earn enough money, and when he died he was buried in an unmarked grave. Today, however, many people consider him the most brilliant musical genius the world has ever known.
I simply follow my own feelings.
—Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart
