The Genius of Mozart

The Genius of Mozart presents the extraordinary life of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, one of the most influential composers in musical history. This three-part BBC series, hosted by Charles Hazlewood, traces Mozart’s journey from his childhood as a travelling musical prodigy to his untimely death at the age of 35.

The first episode, “Miracle of Nature,” focuses on Mozart’s early years and his relationship with his father, Leopold. It showcases how the young composer grew from a gifted performer and writer of music into a genius who began to rewrite the musical rules of his time. The episode also highlights the composition of the Piano Concerto in D minor, demonstrating Mozart’s evolving musical prowess.

“A Passion for the Stage,” the second installment, revolves around Mozart’s operatic works. It features three of his greatest operas: The Magic Flute, Idomeneo, and The Marriage of Figaro. The episode illustrates how these masterpieces revolutionized musical theater, pushing the boundaries of the art form and leaving an indelible mark on the world of opera.

The final episode, “The First Romantic,” covers the latter part of Mozart’s life. It portrays how he mastered the language of instrumental and orchestral writing during this period. The episode also delves into the personal tragedies that befell Mozart, including the deaths of his father and four of his children. Despite these hardships, it shows how Mozart experienced an extraordinary burst of creativity, producing some of his most celebrated works.

Throughout the series, Hazlewood provides insightful commentary, offering a deeper understanding of Mozart’s genius and his impact on classical music. The documentary combines historical context, musical analysis, and dramatic reconstructions to paint a vivid picture of Mozart’s life and times.