The haunting beauty of Mozart's Requiem and the tragic circumstances surrounding its composition have made it a favorite among performers and listeners alike. But how much of it actually Mozart's - and how do we know? Who wrote the missing pieces? What role did his wife, Constanze, play - and what about the man who secretly commissioned the work? Who tricked whom, and who had the last laugh in this grim tale? The author, an internationally recognized expert on Mozart, traces the complex web of events and intrigue surrounding the composition of the Requiem and how it was completed after Mozart's death. In an easy-to-read style, he presents an accurate, precise, complete narrative of the dramatic story; and with a spoonful of sugar, he introduces newcomers to some of the technical problems, clues, and terminology used in reconstructing such histories.

The haunting beauty of Mozart's Requiem and the tragic circumstances surrounding its composition have made it a favorite among performers and listeners alike. But how much of it actually Mozart's - and how do we know? Who wrote the missing pieces? What role did his wife, Constanze, play - and what about the man who secretly commissioned the work? Who tricked whom, and who had the last laugh in this grim tale? The author, an internationally recognized expert on Mozart, traces the complex web of events and intrigue surrounding the composition of the Requiem and how it was completed after Mozart's death. In an easy-to-read style, he presents an accurate, precise, complete narrative of the dramatic story; and with a spoonful of sugar, he introduces newcomers to some of the technical problems, clues, and terminology used in reconstructing such histories.

"'When was the score of the Requiem completed?' is a question that everyone has asked; . . .but Wolff goes on to ask: 'Where do the technical and stylistic premises for the Requiem lie, and to what extent could these be taken into account after Mozart's death?' This question is rich in implications, central to the uniqueness of the work, and virtually undiscussed in the Mozart literature."—Thomas Bauman, co-author of Mozart's Operas

In the realm of classical music, few works possess the intrigue and fascination of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart's Requiem. Its haunting melodies and enigmatic history have captivated audiences and scholars alike for centuries. From the moment it first echoed through the halls of Vienna's churches to its continued resonance in concert halls worldwide, the Requiem has remained a beacon of musical genius and mystery. Mozart's Requiem stands as a testament to the enduring power of his music and the enigmatic nature of his life and legacy. Born in 1756 in Salzburg, Austria, Mozart displayed prodigious musical talent from a young age. His extraordinary abilities as a composer, pianist, and violinist quickly propelled him to fame and success throughout Europe. Yet, beneath the surface of his meteoric rise to prominence lay a life marked by struggle, uncertainty, and tragedy. The circumstances surrounding the commissioning of the Requiem exemplify the intrigue and drama that pervade Mozart's biography. In the summer of 1791, Mozart received an anonymous request for a requiem mass, ostensibly commissioned by an anonymous patron for the commemoration of a loved one's death. As he embarked on the composition of this solemn work, Mozart's health began to deteriorate rapidly, adding a layer of poignancy to his final creative endeavor. Through meticulous research and analysis, we aim to unravel the mysteries that shroud Mozart's Requiem. Drawing upon historical documents, correspondence, and scholarly interpretations, we delve into the life of the composer and the circumstances surrounding the creation of this iconic masterpiece. From the financial pressures that plagued Mozart to the rumors of his involvement in secret societies, we explore the myriad factors that influenced the composition and reception of the Requiem. As we trace the journey of the Requiem from Mozart's pen to the world stage, we uncover its profound impact on music and culture. Premiered in Vienna in 1793 under the direction of Mozart's student Franz Xaver Süssmayr, the Requiem captivated audiences with its haunting beauty and emotional depth. Its subsequent performances and adaptations by composers such as Franz Liszt, Johannes Brahms, and Herbert von Karajan attest to its enduring appeal and influence. The story of Mozart's Requiem is one of triumph, tragedy, and timeless beauty. From its inception in the final months of Mozart's life to its enduring legacy in the modern era, the Requiem continues to inspire awe and admiration among musicians and audiences worldwide. Join us as we embark on a journey to uncover the true story behind Mozart's Requiem and celebrate the genius of his final masterpiece.