It seems very few famous classical composers made it past the age of 40 during the late 18th and early 19th centuries. Mozart’s death at 35 has perhaps received the most attention, and now the New York Times has published a piece drawing attention to the work of one scholar who has organized and analyzed 118 possible reasons for the composer’s death: “After Mozart’s Death, an Endless Coda.” That so much energy has been committed to a mystery without much historical import (especially since poisoning by rival composer Salieri seems to be ruled out) is a testament to the unique passion Mozart inspires.
For more on Mozart’s last years and burial site, check out this old post: “The Real Mozart.”
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