Mozart, Johann Georg Leopold#
b. Augsburg (Germany), Nov. 14, 1719, d. Salzburg, May 28, 1787, composer, concert master, music scholar, father of Maria Anna Mozart and Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart. Moved to Salzburg in 1737 to study at the university and started his career as a musician in 1739. In 1743 became violinist to the archbishop of Salzburg, who promoted him to the post of court composer in 1757 and deputy music director in 1763. In 1747 married Anna Maria Pertl (b. St. Gilgen, Dec. 25, 1720, d. Paris (France), July 3, 1778). His "Violinschule", a textbook for musical instruction published in 1756, proved most influential throughout the 18th and 19th centuries and represents a valuable source for the Early Music movement. His numerous compositions include symphonies and church music. Influenced by the rococo and the early classical, his compositions combine elements of folk music and instrumental music in the galant style. His didactic talents are most obvious in the achievements of his two children, whom he took on extensive musical tours.
Works#
Church music, oratorios and educational dramas. Symphonies (e.g. Kindersymphonie), divertimenti and serenades (Bauernhochzeit; Musikal. Schlittenfahrt, 1755). - Versuch einer gruendlichen Violinschule, 1756.Literature#
L. Wegele, L. M., 1969; A. Layer, Eine Jugend in Augsburg - L. M., 1976; M. H. Schmid, M. und die Salzburger Tradition, 1976; J. Mancal (ed.), L. M., 1994; E. Valentin, L. M. Eine Biographie, 1998.