Mozart: An Introduction to His Signature and Popular Works
Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, who had a profound impact on classical music.
He began composing at the age of five, displayed his talents from an early age by performing before European royalty, and left behind more than 800 works during his 35-year life.
He also produced masterpieces in every musical genre of his time and excelled not only as a composer but also as a conductor, pianist, organist, and violinist, earning him the title of a musical genius.
In this article, we introduce some of Mozart’s signature and most popular pieces.
Please enjoy his music—melodies that are catchy and familiar, yet of high quality and imbued with a charm that defies simple description.
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[Mozart] Introducing Representative and Popular Works (11–20)
Sonata for Two Pianos, K. 448Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart
Composed in 1781, this work is brilliant and highly effective in performance.
It is said that Mozart wrote it specifically to play together with his pupil.
In Japan, it became widely known when the protagonists Chiaki and Nodame performed it in the manga series Nodame Cantabile.
The first movement opens with a powerful, march-like theme; the second movement is characterized by a lyrical, singing melody; and the third movement features a lively, memorable subject.
The light, skillful interplay between the two pianos and the rich sonic effects are particularly appealing.
Its bright, expansive character leaves listeners with a refreshing impression.
Clarinet Quintet in A major, K. 581Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart
Composed in September 1789, this work is a masterpiece that brings out the full allure of the clarinet.
Consisting of four movements—the bright and lucid first movement, the beautifully serene second, a third movement featuring two contrasting trios, and a fourth in theme-and-variations form—it offers a rich variety of expression.
It skillfully exploits the clarinet’s wide range and lyrical capabilities, achieving exquisite balance with the string quartet that captivates listeners.
Through this piece, Mozart made a significant contribution to the development of the clarinet, which was still a relatively new instrument at the time.
A must-hear for chamber music enthusiasts.
Concerto for Flute and Harp, K. 299Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart
Completed in Paris in April 1778, the Concerto for Flute and Harp is a work with a rare combination, composed for a French nobleman and his daughter.
At the time, it made the most of the then-developing characteristics of the flute and harp, resulting in an elegant, well-balanced three-movement structure.
The brilliance of the first movement’s themes, the calm and graceful melody of the second, and the light, vibrant finale of the third each distill their own distinct charm.
Enjoy the harmonious blend of the flute’s and harp’s beautiful timbres.
Symphony No. 25, K. 183Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart
In Japan, this piece was once used in a TV commercial for a certain hamburger chain.
Among Mozart’s 68 symphonies, only this one and No.
40 are in a minor key.
The oboe solo melody is somewhat melancholy, yet the rest is highly intense and passionate—a youthful symphony.
Twelve Variations on “Ah, vous dirai-je, Maman” (Variations on the French song), Kira-Kira Star VariationsWolfgang Amadeus Mozart
Among Mozart’s piano pieces, this is a famous and frequently performed favorite at concerts.
Its official title is “12 Variations on the French Song ‘Ah, vous dirai-je, Maman’,” but because it uses the familiar children’s song “Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Star” as its theme, it has come to be known in Japan as the “Twinkle, Twinkle Little Star Variations.” The theme is transformed through successive variations, shifting to minor keys, becoming grand and expansive, and displaying a wide range of expressions.
Piano Sonata No. 11, K. 311, Movement 3 “Turkish March”Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart
The third movement of Mozart’s Piano Sonata No.
11, widely known as “Turkish March,” is a popular piece often performed on its own.
Its distinctive Turkish-style rhythms and melodies give it a lively, invigorating character.
Composed around 1783, the work also shows an innovative side by embracing the Orientalism that was fashionable at the time.
With its brilliant ornamentation and dramatic rhythms, it captivates listeners and is a piece many piano students aspire to play.
Be sure to listen to the sonata as a whole as well—Movements I and II are also well worth hearing.
[Mozart] Introducing Signature and Popular Pieces (21–30)
Piano Sonata No. 16, K. 545Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart
This work is the piece Mozart labeled as “a little sonata for beginners.” It consists of three movements, and the first movement features a melody you may have heard even if you’re not familiar with classical music.
Its hallmark is a friendly, bright theme; despite its simplicity, it offers harmonies that resonate with the heart and a beautiful sonic tapestry woven by the interplay of the left and right hands.
It’s an ideal piece for learning the basics of classical music and for savoring the joy of performing.