The Scholarly Writings, and Such
This section includes some fo the finest--and some of the worst-- serious books on Mozart. With one or two noted exceptions, I have copies of all these, and I prize them dearly.
Many of them are now out of print and are available only in libraries--unless your public library is like mine! My library saw fit to remove all the Mozart books and either sell them off behind my back, or send them to a library clear accross the county because someone vandalized a couple of them.
Nonetheless, this is my basic list of books to check out. You'll be surprised at some of the fascinating things that have been written over the years.
All listings are alphabetical by title.
1791, Mozart's Last Year - HIGHLY RECOMMENDED
H.C. Robbins Landon - 1988, Schirmer Books
Wonderful book about the puzzling, controversial last year of Mozart's life. Like all of this author's books, a definitive work on whatever Mozartean subject he touches. Has lots of wonderful information, including diagrams of Mozart's last address and inventories of his personal effects.
Anna...Susanna: Anna Storace, Mozart's First Susanna
Geoffry Brace - 1991, Thames Publishing
Biography of the singing actress whose name has sometimes been linked romantically to Mozart's. The true story of her life is much more interesting than the fantasy, and it is often astonishing how little of her life and career really related to Mozart at all.
The Barber of Seville/The Marriage of Figaro
Pierre A Caron de Beaumarchais , translated from the French by Vincent Luciani
- 1964, Barron's Educational Series
Very readable translations are a must for understanding the Figaro story and for giving insite as to why Mozart chose this play to set to music. if you can't read the original French, then read this! This is the second oldest book in my Mozart collection.
The Compleat Mozart - HIGHLY RECOMMENDED
Neal Zaslaw & William Cowdery - 1990, W.W.Noron & Co.
This fabulous book lists, catalogs and discusses everything in the Kochel catalog, going into great detail while keeping largely in layman's language. Highly useful and informative, and another must-have.
Constanze Mozart: After the Requiem
Heinz Gartner, translated from the German - 1986, Amadeus press
The first serious book written about Mozart's wife, which shows her as a tough, determined business woman, and how this may have earned her many enemies. Unfortunately, despite its promise, it is another Constanze-bashing book.
Constanze Mozart: An Unimportant Woman - HIGHLY RECOMMENDED
Renate Welsh, translated from tyhe german - 1997, Ariadne Press
Written with slightly florid language, this little book is a loving tribute to Constanze somewhere between a biography and a novel. It is a very nice little book that is easy to read, and very entertaining.
Constanze, Mozart's Beloved - HIGHLY RECOMMENDED
Agnes Selby - 1999, Turton & Armstrong
About time! This is an excellent biography in defense of a great, misunderstood lady. It describes not only her deeply passionate relationship with Mozart, but the very important fifty years after his death. A lot of books have been written about her, but none so thorough and eloquent as this. One of the best of the new generation Mozart books now available, it is a must for every bookshelf.
Don Giovanni: Myths of Seduction and Betrayal
Jonathan Miller - 1991, Baltime
A fascinating look at the background behind "Don Giovanni", with illustratons from the Glynborne production. Not on my personal shelf, alas, but was once in the public library until some Sphinxoid stole it. Come to think of it, there was a lot of that in my public library! I'll have to put K.007 on the case.
Essays on the Viennese Classical Style: Gluck, Haydn, Mozart, Beethoven
H.C. Robbins Landon - 1970, Schirer Books
A good collection of essays surveying the career and works of the above. Mozart is only one of the subjects in this book as Landon was a Haydn and Beethoven scholar before he tackled Mozart.
Getting to Know the World's Greatest Composers: Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart
Mike Venezig - 1995, Children's press.
Technically a kid's book, this one is wildly comical with photos and shrewdly insiteful cartoons of Wolfgang wearing kid's clothes on top of long, hairy legs, and Nannerl looking equally ridiculous.
Lots of fun.
The Great Operas of Mozart
W.H. Auden, Chester llman, Ruth & Thomas Martin, Essays by Nathan Broder - 1962, Norton Books
A wonderful collection of English trslations of the five major Mozartean operas, along with original texts. Excellent essays. This is the oldest book on Mozart in my collection.
In Mozart's Footsteps: a Travel Guide for Music Lovers
Harrison James Wignall - 1991, Ha'Penny Press
A very thorough and detailed listing of Mozart landmarks all over Europe, designed for Bicentennial pilgrims. However, he did miss a few things, and his descriptions are not always accurate. Still, it is helpful even today for those who would make a similar trek.
Leopold Mozart
Erma Schwein - 1981, Friends of Mozart
Concise, informative little book on Leopold, this is one of the many "Friends of Mozart" books. They are small, inexpensive, and well done.
Letters of Mozart
W.A.Mozart, edited by Hans Mersman - 1986, Dorset Press
This heavily edited selection of letters is one that younger readers can read without parental objections. An excellent starting place for those who are shy about some of Mozart's more risque letters.
The Letters of Mozart and His Family - HIGHLY RECOMMENDED
Emily Anderson - 1984, Norton Books
One of the most vauled of all documents, contains all known letters by W.A. Mozart as well as many letters of Leopold's and other members of the family. It was the first document of its kind in English. It's shortcoming is that it does not include all family letters, as it was once asumed that most people weren't that interested in reading the writings of Leopold and Nannerl which didn't relate direct to Wolfgang. Mrs. Anderson "corrects" a lot of Mozart's writings. All the same, it is a must-have.
The Magic Flute
Peter Gammon - 1979, Breslich & Foss
Everything you ever wanted to know about this classic opera, bound in a single volume with photos.
The Memoirs of Lorenzo DaPonte
Lorenzo Da Ponte - 1967, Dover Books edition
Fun to read. DaPonte's autobiography is engrossing and informative, and there was a lot more to him than just his partnershp with Mozart. What a garrulous, brilliant wind-bag of a character!
Mozart
Eric Blom - 1935, J.M. Dent & Sons, Ltd.
A gracefully written biography with half of the book dedicated to a discussion of Mozart's music. Like all books from this period, it contains a lot of inaccuracies, but it still has much to offer.
Mozart
Alfred Einstein - 1945, Oxford University Press
Still considered one of the great classics, despite some seriously dated material which perpetuates numerous old myths. Discusses both biographical matters and music. While excellent musicology, it is only second-rate biography.
Mozart
Wolfgang Hildeschiemer - 1983, Random House
Influences mostly by Leopold's writings, this book is largely responsible for the viewpoint of the play/film, "Amadeus." Hasa very negative interpretation of Wolfgang, with plenty of opinionated psycho-babble.
Mozart: a Cultural Biography - HIGHLY RECOMMENDED
Robert W. Gutman - 1999, Harcourt Brace
One of the finest books on the world Mozart lived in, focusing on the dynamics between him and his father. Far superior to the Maynard Solomon book on the same subject, this is one of the best books on Mozart currently in publication.
Mozart: a Bicentennial Tribute
Wendy Thompson - 1989, Quinter Pub. Ltd.
Pretty commemorative book with mostly plates. Nice coffee table book, but nothing in depth.
Mozart: a Biography
Annette Kalb - 1956, Henry Regnery Co.
A biography in essay form, lushly romantic. Makes for some very nice reading.
Mozart: a Documentary Biography - HIGHLY RECOMMENDED
Otto Erich Deutsch - 1966, Adam & Charles Blade, London
Apart from Mozart's letters, this work of a lifetime (literally) probably helped to shed more light on the historical Mozart than anything previously written. Contains some truly wonderful details. Another must-read. Wish I owned a copy!
Mozart: a Life - HIGHLY RECOMMENDED
Maynard Soloman - 1996, Harper Perennials
Engrossing, moving, even terrifying account of the family dynamics in Mozart's life, focusing much light on the destructive influence of Leopold. Contains a certain amount of psycho-babble, but nevertheless is insiteful as long as it doesn't go too much off the deep end--which it occasionally does, I fear.
Mozart and Constanze
Francis Carr - 1983, Avon Books
Considered by many to be the trashiest book ever written about Mozart, trading on the long-discredited myth of Mozart having been murdered by Franz Hofdemel and describes Constanze as a woman of "animal appetites". All sorts of offensive tabloid nonsense. Mercifully out of print, I wouldn't recommend it to a goldfish. I really hate this ghastly little book! One of the worst ever written, in my opinion.
Mozart and Classical Music
Francesco Salvo - 1998 Barrons
Designed like one of the famous DK books for chiuldren, this gives a fascinating perspective of Mozart's world. It suffers from a shocking number of inaccuracies, though, and could be very confusing for the uninitiated. Technically for children, it is one of those books hat really catches the eye.
Mozart and His Times
Erick Schenk - 1960, Secher & Warburg
Has a lot of interesting things to say, and is nicely written. A classic of its kind and well worth finding if possible.
Mozart and Masonry
Paul Nettl - 1957, Dorset Press
Deals largely with the masonic influence in Mozart's music. Has a great deal to say, of course, about imagery in "The Magic Flute".
Mozart and the Masons: New Light on the Lodge, "Crowned Hope"
H.C. Robbins Landon - 1991, Thames & Hudson
Tiny book, lavishly illustrated, mainly to identify the faces in the well-known painting of Mozart's Lodge. Quite a fascinating little volume.
Mozart Beiden Salzburger Marionetten
Gottfried Kraus - 1991
Written in German, this is a beautifully illustrated history and guide to the justly famous Salzburg marionettes which regularly perform adaptations of Mozart operas. Anyone who has seen these puppets perform will understand right away what a joy this book is.
Mozart: Child Wonder, Great Composer
Irene Gass - 1966, A & C Black, Ltd.
Nicely illustrated introductory biography. Very good for younger readers, but not bad for armchair reading adults who want an introduction and don't need indept scholarly writings.
The Mozart Compendium - HIGHLY RECOMMENDED
H.C. Robbins Landon - 1991, Reprint 1999 Border Books
A comprehensive collection of facts, timelines, photos and generally useful information. Like all of this author's books, a must-have for your library. Makes a fine handy reference book, and a copy sits beside my computer.
Mozart: Die Einzige Bilderbiographie - HIGHLY RECOMMENDED
Stefan Siegert & N.F. Hoffman - 1990, Knauer
This is absolutely one of my favorites! A clever, unique, wildly funny little biography after my own heart, illustrated with lots of cartoons and a lavish, wicked sense of humor. Even if you don't read more than a few words of German, those familiar with the Mozart story will have no trouble at all in following it. I hear it is now very hard to find, but it is worth hunting for. Proof that great comic minds think alike! I even snitched one of the drawings to put on the page of "Mozart Impersonators".
The Mozart Family - HIGHLY RECOMMENDED
Ruth Halliwell - 2000, Oxford
Intelligent and thoughtful book centering on Leopold , Nannerl and Maria Anna Mozart and their complex family relationships. It looks at them through more sympathetic eyes than is often encountered. Has maps and fascinating photos and a curious look at the surprisingly alien world of the 18th century.
Mozart: From Child Prodigy to Tragic Hero - HIGHLY RECOMMENDED
Michael Partoutry - 1993, Abrahms
Surprisingly small in size, even more surprising in the amount of lovely material in such a compact volume. Like most Abrahms art books, this one is magnificently illustrated with a brief, but concise text. This is another one every Mozart lover should have.
Mozart: His Life and Times
Peggy Woodford - 1981, Papaniniana Publications
Good information, nicely illustrated. I don't actually own this one, but like all her books, it is pleasant to read and to look at.
Mozart: Illustrated Lives of the Great Composers
Peggy Woodford - 1977, Omnibus Press
Attractive little book of basic information with numerous plates. A surprising amount of stuff is squeezed into this elegant little volume.
Mozart in Person: His Character and Health
Dr.Peter J. Davies - 1989, Greenwood
Almost gruesomely clinical at times, this looks at Mozart the way his own doctor might. All aspects of his physical and mental state are thoroughly examined, and every possible cause of his death is examined. Also includes much discussion on the controversial skull. Dr. Davies is considered the foremost expert on Mozart's medical history, and pretty much clears up any questions about the causes of his death.
Mozart in Prague
Tomislav Volek - 1991, Prague Information Service
I have seldom seen so much crammed into so small a space as this wonderful little booklet, filled with beautiful and unusual plates as well as a complete history on Mozart's associations with Prague. If you can still find it, it is available in multipule languages, and a charming addition to your collection.
Mozart in Vienna: 1781 - 1791 - HIGHLY RECOMMENDED
Volkmar Braunbehrens, translated from the German by Timothy Bell - 1989, Grove press
Intelligent, excellent book with many astute observations. This was one of the first of the modern age biographies, sifting through facts and myths with astute dexterity. A valuable book.
Mozart in Vienna - HIGHLY RECOMMENDED
H.C. Robbins Landon - 1991, Schirmer Books
Superb look at day to day life in Vienna of the 1780's and its relation to Mozart's life & career. I don't have a copy of this one, but I'm looking.
Mozart Memorials in Salzburg
1956, International Foundation Mozarteum
Slim little book written for Mozart's 200th birthday, looks very quaint by today's standards, with only small black & white photos. More of a collector's book than anything, if you can find one.
Mozart: the Man and the Artist Revealed in His Own Words
W.A.Mozart , tranlated from the german by Henry Kirchbiel - 1965, Dover Books
A selection of Mozartean quotations. A very handy, useful guide if you want a quick reference to Mozart's thoughts and words.
Mozart: the Man, the Musician - HIGHLY RECOMMENDED
Arthur Hutchings - 1976, Schirmer Books, division of McMillan
Large, grand, beautiful book with lavish plates. Half is biographical material, half discusses Mozart's music. This is still one of the most magnificent Mozart books ever published.
Mozart: the Golden Years - HIGHLY RECOMMENDED
H.C. Robbins Landon - 1989, Schirmer Books
Big red book, excellent and stylish work on Mozart's ten year career in Vienna, lots of good plates, lots of interesting information. Out of print--try to find it if you can.
The Mozart Myths: a Critical Reassessment - HIGHLY RECOMMENED
William Stafford - 1991, Stanford University Press
A much-needed book that discects all of the major Mozart myths and legends and punctures them whenever they deserve to be--which is often. You really need to read it if you've ever been at all interested in this subject.
Mozartiana: Two Centuries of Notes, Quotes and Anecdotes About Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart - HIGHLY RECOMMENDED
Joseph Solman - 1990, Vintage Books
Highly amusing, delightful collection of people's observations on Mozart. Produced for the 1991 Bicentennial, there was also a calendar that came with it, full of avant-garde parodies of the Lange and Stock portraits. Everything from the most lavish celestial praise to the snide wisecracks of Glenn Gould. Something, in other words, for every taste. It was recently reprinted, but without the calendar.
Mozart's Letters, Mozart's Life - HIGHLY RECOMMENDED
Robert Spaethling - 2000, W.W. Norton & Co.
A wonderful new translation of Mozart's letters with lots of commentary, showing more than other translations the casual forms of speech, bad spelling, and awkward grammer that characterize mozart's writings. The only negative is that some of the letters have been inexpilcably edited.
Mozart's Thematic Catalog: a Facsimilie - HIGHLY RECOMMENDED
W.A.Mozart, translated from the German by Albi Rosenthal, comments by Alan Tyson - 1990 Cornell University
An almost exact reproduction of Mozart's famous little notebook. Beautiful and touching to look at. The final blank pages will make you weep when you realize that they were still meant to have been filled out. Hard to find, but an absolute treasure. This is one you should make every effort to find a copy of.
Mozart's Women: The Man, The Music, and the Loves in His Life -
Jane Glover - 2005, Macmillan Press
Mozart's life seen through the prism of his relationship with his female relatives, in-laws, and female musical associates. Despite the suggestive title and cover art, this is a pretty straight-forward book that doesn't stoop to lurid bedroom speculations, but rather shows the strong female influence throughout his life, his understanding of women, and his obvious liking for them. Pretty good reading.
New Mozart Documents - HIGHLY RECOMMENDED
C. Eisen - 1991, Stanford
Sort of a sequel to O.E. Deutsch's landmark masterpiece, containing even more enlightening and eye-opening material hitherto unknown. Like the volume before it, contains some wonderful new findings.
Piano Concerto No.26 in D Major, "Coronation", K.537 - the Autograph Score
W.A.Mozart, introduction by Alan Tyson - 1991, The Pierrepont Morgan Library & Dover Books
A fascinating first-hand look at one of Mozart's manuscript facsinmilie, showing rare corrections. The tiny handwriting in itself is charming to examine.
Portraits of Greatness: Mozart
Gino Pugnetti, translated from the italian by Helen Lawrence - 1968, Elite Pub.Corp.
Very nice coffee table book with attractive, unusual plates. It may not be available any longer, but it is worth hunting down.
The Spiritual Lives of the Great Composers
Patrick Cavanaugh - 1996, Zondervan Publishing House
A Christian book which examines the relationship to God of many composers, including Mozart. Some parts (especially about Wagner) may be considered controversial. There are plenty of surprises here, and if Christian subjects interest you, this should be worth looking into.
Twice Perfectly Happy
Viggo Sjøqvist - 1975, Bay Books
One of the first scholarly books to present a positive opinion of Constanze Mozart, describing her life as the wife of both Moart and Nissen. This breakthrough book opened many eyes thirty years ago, and continues to set a standard. hard to find, but worth it.
Your Search for Masonic Light: Preparation
Yourt Search for Masonic Light: Master Mason Degree
1953 - The Grand Lodge of the State of Louisiana
Two little books pilfered from my late father's collection give very insiteful descriptions of Masonic rituals for beginners and those advancing to a higher rank. Very informative for those wishing to learn more about this aspect of Mozart's life.
W.A. Mozart - HIGHLY RECOMMENDED
Otta Jahn - 1856, Leipzig (3 vols.)
I confess I don't own a copy of this, I only read it in the library. But it is a glorious early biography, full of familiar and less-familiar anecdotes. Lots of fun, even when it is sometimes inaccurate. Everyone should read it.
W.A.Mozart and Salzburg: A Guide to the Memorial Sites With a Brief Biography
1990, International Stiftung Mozarteum
Slim little paperback written for the 200th anniversary of Mozart's death. Contains a brief biography and some lovely little color plates. An official publication, it is very helpful for tourists.
Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart: 1791 - 1991
1991 Land Salzburg Evenemait Media
Gorgeous souvenir book of the 1991 Bicentennial with articles, beautiful photos, and a general Bicentennial Itinerary. Was available in several languages, and is probably long-since out of print. I got mine, though--hah hah!
For Young Readers
Some of the first actual books I ever read about Mozart came from this catagory, probably cause as an artist, I loved to see how other people might draw him. Not all of the ones I've read are listed here, regretably, because some were found in public libraries before I started recording my bibliography. I recommend checking out your own library to find some of them.
Amadeus Mozart
Ibi Lepscky - 1982/1991, Barron's Educational
An extremely cute biography aimed at very young readers, full of adorable illustrations. Almost "cuddly".
Ben Fanklin's Glass Armonica - HIGHLY RECOMMENDED
Bryna Stevens - 1983, Carolrhody Books, Inc.
Droll little book about the invention of the glass armonica, the panic it caused, and Mozart's role in it all. Great fun to read. And the kids will love it, too.
The Boy Who Loved Music - HIGHLY RECOMMENDED
David Lasker - 1979, Viking Press, NY
Not a Mozart book, but peripherally related. It is a charming story behind Haydn's "Surprise" Symphony from the viewpoint of a young horn player in the Esterhazy orchestra. Remarkably nice as a period piece.
Famous Children: Mozart
Ann Rachlin - 1992, Aladdin Books Ltd., Barrons Educational Series
Part of a series on the childhoods of famous composers, this one is charmingly illustrated by Susan Hellard, featuring the best-known of the childhood anecdotes. The last page is a very brief tribuite to the adult Mozart, depicting pictures from his four greatest operas. Very sweet little book.
Getting to Know the World's Greatest Composers: Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart
Mike Venezig - 1995, Children's press.
Wildly comical with photos and shrewdly insiteful cartoons of Wolfgang wearing kid's clothes on top of long, hairy legs, and Nannerl looking equally ridiculous. Lots of fun.
Learn to Play Mozart
Daniel Scott - 1993, Usborne Books
Like all books in this series (aimed mostly at homeschoolers), incredibly thorough, beautiful and detailed, despite--or perhaps because of--it's youthful audience. Has a little keyboard of limited range that allows you to pick out some simple melodies.
Lives of the Great Composers, Vol.1
Ian Woodward - 1969, Ldybird Books, Ltd. London
Very cute little book with illustrated biographies of Bach, Mozart and Beethoven. There is also a second volume that features Handel, Schubert and Haydn.
The Magic Flute
Margaret Greeves - 1989, Henry Holt & Co.
Attractively illustrated version of the opera, retold for children. Very charming.
The Story of Mozart
Helen L. Kaufmann - 1955, Grosset & Dunlap
An excellent introductory biography, especially for young readers.
Mozart Finds a Melody
Stephen Costanze - 2004, Henry Holt & Co.
This is a very sweet, charming little story of a mythical adventure with Mozart and his pet Starling. The illustrations are sunny watercolors that capture a real feeling for old Vienna, and depict Mozart as delightfully childlike. The bird has been renamed "Miss Bimms" in honor of Mozart's childhood dog and the story is largely fictional, but it is very cute.
Mozart: Lives and Times series
Wendy Lynch -
This is one in a series of tiny biographies written for 1st or 2nd grade reading levels, and is a fine introduction to the lives of famous people in history, aimed at very young readers. Small children can read these for themselves, and they provide a surprisingly complete biography as well as a brief discussion on why these people are important, why we remember them, and things in our culture today that these people have influenced. The only thing missing is a selection of actual music, but that would require a CD. Very nice.
Mozart Musical Anecdotes
Waldo Mayo, translated from the Italian - date unlisted, Hyperion Press
Pretty little book, probably written in the 1950's, telling about many of the major popular legends about Mozart's life.
Mozart: Scenes From the Childhood of the Great Composer
Catherine Brighton - 1990, Doubleday
A very pretty picturebook for children, full of good visual images of Wolfgang & Nannerl's first Grand Tour Try to find it.
Opera Antics with Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart - HIGHLY RECOMMENDED
Mary Neidorf - 1987, Sunstone Press
A Mozart activity book with pages to color, finger puppets to make, and a surprising lot of stuff about Mozart and his operas. Lots of fun, even for grown-ups. You can actually build your own finger-puppet theater and perform several of the operas.
Papageno Sucht Amadeus - HIGHLY RECOMMENDED
Ernst A. Ekker & Karin Schliche - 1990, Osterrischer Bundesverlag
A charming, brightly illustrated story of Mozart as told by Papageno to Papagena as they try to "find" him. Completely in German. Wunderbar! Aimed at very young readers, full of adorable illustrations. Almost "cuddly".
The Secret Wish of Nannerl Mozart
Barbara Kathleen Nickel - 1966, Second Story Press
See "Writings of Fiction" below.
Who Was Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart?
Yona Zeldis McDonough - 1003, Grosset & Dunlap, New York
This is one in a series of children's books about famous men and women of history; Mozart being the only example of a composer who is used. It is an unusually thorough book in that it goes beyond his childhood adventures - not common for kid's books about Mozart - and features many pen-and-inkwash illustrations, as well as a comparative timeline. A good introduction.
Writings of Fiction
Sometimes more fun than the strictly historical books. It never ceases to amaze me how imaginative and creative authors can often be, and these books ought also to be appreciated.
Mozart fiction falls into three catagories:
1. Fictionalized Biographies--
Great reading, but naturally full of the authors' personal opinions and speculations.
2. "Lost" letters--
More or less the same as they invariably reflect the authors' speculations.
3. Complete flights of fantasy--
Sometimes the most fun of all because they allow the imagination to go anywhere.
Either way, many of these are among my all-time favorite Mozart writings --
so read them and have fun with them.
I sometimes think Mozart himself would take pleasure in some of these.
Nevertheless, be warned - some of them can be pretty stupid, too.
Amadeus
Peter Shaffer - 1980, Harper & Row
This is the play, inspired by Pushkin & Hildescheimer, which has caused such a commotion for so many years. It's unflattering portrayal of all personalities involved earned it many hisses from Mozart lovers - but it nevertheless inspired the wonderful, and much-less-controversial movie. And let's face it - how many millions of people did it not introduce to Mozart and his music? In spite of its inaccuracies, it is deserving of its place as a great film. Has some of the most wonderful samples of music and some striking imagery. It is sort of the story that everybody loves to hate...or should that be, the story everybody hates to love?
The Assassination of Mozart
David Weiss - 1970, Morrow Books
The sequel to "Sacred and Profane", based loosely on the Vincent & Mary Novello writings, and built around the legend of Mozart having been poisoned by Salieri. Not as good as the first novel, and definetly much more saccarine. Salieri all but wears a black hat and cape, and is wholly monstrous while Mozart practically has a halo around his little blond head. Sometimes you can gag on the sugar and the improbabilities. But for all that, I still enjoyed reading it. A little harder to find than the original.
Coffee With Mozart
Julian Rushton - 2004, Duncan Baird Publishers, London
An enchanting little coffee table book, only about 6"x5" in size. but full of charm. Imagine going to a coffee bar, inviting Mozart to sit down and chat over a latte. Mozart and the author chat over everything from himself, his music, to his personal observations on life. A nice addition to anyone's Mozart library.
Dark Melody
Elizabeth Waterford - 1980's, publisher possibly Del Mar Books (?)
This futuristic fantasy is about a woman who time-travels through a dark mirror into 1791 in order to meet Mozart, dying of a rare kidney disease while his wife tormets him with her infidelities. The heroine has a torrid affair with him, and tries to take him back with her to the 20th century to have him cured, but she loses him somewhere in the depths of time where he becomes (are you ready?) Johann Sebastian Bach, mysteriously cured. Not terribly peasant, rather depressing, and sometimes outight silly. Hard to find, and my copy has vanished. Just as well, I suppose.
Dead, Mr. Mozart
Bernard Bastable - 1994, St.Martin's Press
A fantasy in which an aging Mozart lives in London. In this story, Leopold settled his family in London so that Wolfgang grows up as a naturalized Englishman -- still unappreciated, still largely unsuccessful. His entire family history in this "alternate universe" story is of course totally different from reality. On top of everything else, he is even inadvertantly caught up in a crime.
It spawned a sequel, called "Too Many Notes, Mr.Mozart". Very reminescent of the many "alternate realitity" stories in science fiction or fan fiction.
The Fabulous Riverboat
Phillip Jose Farmer - 1971, G.P.Putnam's Sons, Berkleyt Books NY
The Second book of the five-part "Riverworld" series. In this book, aliens have kidnapped all of the human race from the beginning of time until the present, restoring the living and dead to eternal youth and health and turning them all loose on a garden-like planet, dominated by an enormous winding river. All their needs met, yet they are still themselves, and bring the bad things of human nature along with them. Among the various personalities, famous and not so famous, Mozart has appeared toward the end of book two, and may be in book three as well. Mozart made his way toward the headquarters of Samuel "Mark Twain" Clemens, who is building a giant riverboat, and Mozart has heard he will be wanting to start an orchestra. Three guess who wants to be the conductor. Instead, he is being used as a sentry since there are enemies all around. He is eventually thrown off the riverboat in the fourth book, because Clemens is annoyed with him. His part in the story is very small.
I, Vampire - HIGHLY RECOMMENDED
Michael Romkey -
Imagine Mozart as a vampire. Imagine Mozart as a chief of Vampires. Imagine vampires as the "good guys". Now you know. This one is lots of fun; magical rather than horrific, and full of joy. I had heard that a movie was in the making, which might have been very interesting, but so far, nothing has come of it. This book is a guilty pleasure of mine, and surprised me greatly by being an extremely delightful diversion. Kind of "The Blade" meets "Amadeus". See LINKS
Imagining Don Giovanni - HIGHLY RECOMMENDED
Anthony Rudel - 2001,
The legendary story of mozart being introduced to Casanova for advice on the creation of "Don Giovanni" is portrayed as never before. One of the best examples of recent Mozart fiction, it is seductive, sexy without being vulgar, steamy without being explicit, and very, very sweet and romantic. This is a love story to dream of, and I recommend it without reservation. Give it to someone you love as a Valentine.
The Irish Boy: a Romantic Biography - HIGHLY RECOMMENDED
Naomi Jacob - 1955, William Brendon & Sons, Ltd.
A very different novel in which Mozart plays a very periferal role. It is the story of tenor Michael Kelly and his English musical companions. The story centers around his love for the famous singer, Nancy Storace. It is a scenario with more historical substance to it than the usual myth of La Storace being Mozart's lover. Nicely written, with a very good look at the contemporary British theater. Hard to find, but worth it.
Letters to Horseface - HIGHLY RECOMMENDED
F.N. Monjo & Don Bolognese -
Another "lost letters to Nannerl" book, this one is supposed to have been written while Wolfgang & Leopold were travelling in Italy. Has a lot of charming touches of things that a boy travelling in a foreign country might find entertaining. Thoroughly delightful, nicely illustrated.
Loving Mozart: a Past-Life Memory of the Composer's Final years
Mary Mantano - 1995, Cantus Verus Books
A New Age novel about a young woman who is the reincarnation of Franz Xaver Sussmayr, and who is searching for the reincarnation of Mozart. It is a little bit maudlin at times -- what we used to call a "hurt-comfort" story. It of course claims to be a true account-- but it has far too many loopholes to be taken seriously, even if you believe in such things. It still manages to be reasonably enjoyable, but it works best if you treat it as a science fiction story.
Warning -- many of you may not care much for the porayal of Constanze as a murderess.
The Magic Flute: Mozart's Opera and How it Came to be Written - HIGHLY RECOMMENDED
Erich Crozier - 1965, Henry K. Walck, Inc.
One of several "letters" books of so-called "lost" letters to Nannerl. It is a sweet little book with delicate little pen and ink drawings, and depicts a tiny, fragile-looking Mozart. I have always been fond of this one.
The Magic Flute
P.Craig Russell - 1990, Eclipse Books
A three-volume "graphic novel" (i.e., comic book), this takes a look at the famous opera through new eyes with a wholly new perspective. Russel is famous for his stylish illustrations of Wagnerian opera, and he does an exotic Zauberflote, somewhere between Art Nouveau and Art Deco, and much in the style of Kay Neilsen, who is one of my favorite illustrators. Minor changes have been made in the storyline to accomdate Russell's art concepts, however, and it isn't always easy to 'see" Mozart through the maze of images.
Marrying Mozart - HIGHLY RECOMMENDED
Stephanie Cowell - 2004, Penguin Books Ltd,, Viking Penguin
This is an absolutely delightful book, and I believe the best of its kind available. It is charming and sweet, and reads like a Jane Austin novel, describing the adventures and misadventures of four likable teenage girls named Weber who are competing for the attentions (and affections) of a compelling, charismatic young man from Salzburg who has visited their home while looking for a job. You will be enchanted by this lively little book, and I put my highest recommendations on it. So walk, don't run, to your bookstore or to your favorite online bookseller, and get yourself a copy as soon as possible. You will not be disappointed with this treat. It has been a long time since we've had such a good, readable Mozart story to curl up with.
Mediocre Melodies - HIGHLY RECOMMENDED (of course)
Cheryl W. Duval - 1988,1991, Off-Note Productions
A collection of cartoons done as a send-up on "Amadeus", strictly in fun, and in the spirit of Chuck Jones. Usually pretty funny, and some of the cartoons have made their way onto my site. Why not? After all, they're mine.
Mozart - HIGHLY RECOMMENDED
Marcia Davenport - 1935,
Though a readable and charming biography, it falls into the catagory of fiction because of its extensive use of imaginery scenes with imaginery dialog, plus the fact that a lot of her information is now so dated that it has to be considered fiction. Nevertheless, it is considered one of the all-time favorite Mozart books of a great many people, and was the first Mozart novel many people discovered. It was my second.
Mozart and the Gray Steward
Thornton Wilder - 1915 (?)
A little "playlette" by the great American playwrite, and not one of his better known works. The huge cast of three (Mozart, Constanze, and the Masked Messenger) are all in a fifteen-minute drama, which is pretty much about what the title suggests. Like all of Wilder's works, rife with philosophical exposition, even in this brief format.
Mozart and Salieri
Alexander Pushkin - date unknown
The little Russian play that started it all--the grandfather of "Amadeus". Would you believe there is even an opera by the same name, written by no less than Rimsky-Korsekov. And that in itself is a curious experience, because you listen to Mozartish themes as written by a 19th century Russian Romantic. Not sure that i like it. Peter Schaffer was obviously inspired by this piece.
The Mozart Diet
Annette Francis & Paula Hober - 1988, Bravo! Books
It isn't really a work of fiction, but it isn't historical, either. It is just a fun collection of recipes with Mozartean names and Mozartean anecdotes in the margins. Good for Mozart Birthday Parties or other "Mozart occasions".
The Mozart Score
Edwin Leather - 1979 Doubleday & Co.
A detective story and mystery, involving a newly discovered Mozart manuscript--and the discovery has some scary international consequences. Almost reads like a James Bond adventure, and was no doubt inspired by the Bond novels. In a nutshell, another somebody-murdered-Mozart story, and another one that borrowed from (gag!) Francis Carr. I am amazed at how many people seem to be inspired by his theories.
Mozart's Fugue
Jay Raymond - 2000, Online Originals
The same idea as "Anastasia", really. Mozart is almost buried alive until a sharp-eyed Jewish ragpicker rescues him and takes him to Eastern Poland. He is nursed back health, but he has this problem called amnesia, and he is launched into a whole new life, and "now" has an obscure descendant living in the 20th century. Unfortunately, a rather gloomy book that misses out on many potentials for a good story, and fails to capture the joy and spirit that were part of Mozart's personaliy. Instead, it creates a gloomy new personality under the dubious name of "Johann Wunder". Even given the amnesia scenario, this is a story that just doesn't quite work, and only annoys the reader. Too bad. A "Mozart-meets-Fiddler-on-the-Roof" idea could have been wonderful. What we get instead is closer to "Mozart-meets-Dostoyevsky".
Mozart's Journey to Prague - HIGHLY RECOMMENDED
Edvard Morike, translated from German by Walter & Catherine Alison Phillips - 1947 Pantheon Press
A pretty, gentle story about Wolfgang & Constanze's journey to Prague. This was one of the first pieces of Mozart fiction written, unless you count the play by Alexnder Pushkin. Originally written in the late 19th century, it is a gracefully nostalgic, and still lovely.
Mozart's Wife
Juliet Waldron - 2000, Online Originals
A novel about Mozart's life and times during the Vienna years, as told first-person by his wife, Constanze. This book seems to have been largely influenced by "Amadeus"-- so much so, that one can actually invision the actors from the film instead of the historical people. It is an engrossing story, but I'm sorry to say that it leans heavily toward the nauseating theories of Francis Carr, involving unbelievable infidelities and the myth of Mozart being poisoned by Franz Hofdemel, the only story more tiresome than the ones where he is poisoned by Salieri. All the same, though, it provides an excellent picture of a life in the 18th century and is reasonably good reading.
The Muffin Fiend
Daniel Pinkwater - date unknown
Very funny book about the "great detective Mozart", out to discover who is stealing the great pastries of Europe. Technically a children's book, but one that really deserves a slot in the fiction books for adults instead. I am dying to find a copy for myself, and it has been years since I read it. I confess that this great detective partly inspired the creation of Agent K.007.
Night's Daughter
Marion Zimmer Bradley - 1985, Ballentine/Random House
This wonderful, fantastical novelization of "The Magic Flute" is tremendous fun to read. Magical, upbeat, and soaring, it is a "must" for all lovers of the Mozart fiction genre, as well as fans of the opera. Some of the storyline has been changed a little, but the result is so charming that it is easy to forgive--unlike the appauling animated film of "The Magic Flute" done several years ago, where everything was rewritten and papageno was played by a big chicken!
Night Music
S. K. Waller - 2000-2003 allegrowd.com
Another New Age novel, told in first-person format by "Mozart" himself. The first version was an emotional roller-coaster ride which took you inside Mozart's thoughts and feelings, alternating between warm and funny and the truly terrible. The second edition is much more bitter and cynical. Both versions are, however, highly controversial, particularly with an ending which most people will have a great deal of trouble with, and may find offensive. The overall effect is still good reading, but with a big caviat. The author also wrote this story to mirror her own belief that she is Mozart reincarnated. I'll give her this - she's featured in a German-made documentary on wierd Mozart Fans, entitled "Mozartballs"; but even if you believe in such things, her version is often pretty hard to swallow.
Night's Music
Michael Mixon Wakefield - 1987, Ballintine books
Science fiction fantasy in which scientists from an alien planet kidnap the great artists of Earth's history in order to understand Mankind. Among the abductees are Van Gogh, Da Vinci, Shakespeare, and of course--Mozart. Not as good as it might have been, though. Mozart takes a backseat to Da Vinci, and I still haven't figured out why it was given a Mozartean title since it has more to do with inventions than with music. One of those disappointing books that promises an amusing diversion, but just doesn't deliver.
NightMusic: a Mystery
Harrison Gradwell Slater - 2002, Harcourt, Inc.
A small-time musicologist discovers by accident an old diary in Italy that appears to have been written by the teenage Mozart. His adventures take him all over the continent, finding additional papers, but there are other people who will stop at nothing in order to prevent the "truth" about Mozart becoming public. While interesting and well researched, it still sets my teeth on edge since it is another one of those dreary stories that draws from the hideous writings of Francis Carr. So you have been warned!
Sacred and Profane - HIGHLY RECOMMENDED
David Weiss - 1968, Morrow Books
A novelized biography of Mozart. The movie "Amadeus" borrowed whole scenes, and even some sections of dialog, directly from this book. Although with a Mozart sometimes too good to be true, it nevertheless tells the story very well, and is still one of the most popular biographies of its kind, and a surprising mumber of the scenes and dialog were borrowed for the movie "Amadeus". Out of print, but still can be found in many used-book stores. This was the first Mozart biography I ever read.
The Secret Wish of Nannerl Mozart - HIGHLY RECOMMENDED
Barbara Kathleen Nickel - 1966, Second Story Press
While "officially" a book for children, it still works very well as reading for adults. This is the story of 12-year-old Nannerl Mozart, and her growing frustration that she is no longer taken so seriously by her father, now that Wolfgang appears to be the new apple of papa's eye. It focuses on her own wish to be a composer, and how she sneaks her own composition into a concert.
Too Many Notes, Mr. Mozart
Bernard Bastable - 1998, Warner Books
Sequel to "Dead, Mr. Mozart", this is a continuing adventure of the Anglicized, elderly Mozart. This time, he is Princess Victoria's piano teacher and is caught up in hair-raising royal intrigues. Only Mozart can solve the murder mystery, of course, and he does. Rather cute it its way, but to be taken, of course, with a whole box of salt.
The Vampire Papers
Michael Romkey -
The Vampire Mozart and his adventures with a disillusioned vampire apprentice. Not so upbeat as the first, and more horrific than magical, but still worth checking out. It ends on a cliff hanger, though--darn it. A third installment has been promised, but it's been a very long time in coming. There are things afoot on Michael Romkey's website (See LINKS) that hold much promise of things to come. ink drawings, and depicts a tiny, fragile-looking Mozart.
