Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart

Early Years in Salzburg

Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart was born on January 27, 1756, at 9 Getreidegasse in Salzburg's old town. His father, Leopold Mozart, served as deputy Kapellmeister at the Prince-Archbishop's court and recognized Wolfgang as "the miracle which God let be born in Salzburg."

By age 4, Wolfgang was picking out harmonies on the keyboard. At 5, he composed his first piece and was competent on both keyboard and violin. Leopold organized extensive European tours from 1763-1773, during which young Mozart performed before emperors, kings, and nobility across the continent.

The family lived in the third-floor apartment at Getreidegasse until 1773. Only Wolfgang and his sister Maria Anna "Nannerl" survived infancy of the seven Mozart children, both becoming exceptional musicians under their father's dedicated guidance.