the deconstruction of a myth

MozartrazoM

Mozart in Reverse

In the introduction to Mozart’s biography, penned by Constanze Mozart’s second husband, Nissen, it is surprisingly asserted that it’s preferable to conceal the truth, lest Mozart’s image be tarnished.

One does not want, nor can one publicly show their hero as he presented himself in the shadow of privacy; if he could be questioned, he himself would hardly admit it. He was and remains the master of his words, which he could have left unwritten and which he only wrote for the person with whom he wanted to confide. He had weaknesses, shortcomings, which he partly improved later and which one will not have the occasion to reveal. Through the whole truth, his fame, his esteem, and the impression of his works may be damaged.

Georg Nikolaus Nissen

Ultimately, we don’t believe in hiding the truth, and so we let the primary sources speak.

Who We Are

MozartrazoM is a project by musicologists Luca Bianchini and Anna Trombetta.

The site aims to challenge the traditional narratives surrounding Mozart and his family, offering a critical and often controversial perspective that contrasts with the mainstream glorification of the composer.

In addition, these pages also host some of the finest musicological and critical contributions from other authors who refuse to tell fairy tales and are dedicated to seeking the truth by rigorously investigating the sources.

Luca Bianchini and Anna Trombetta delivered lectures on Mozart and the relationship between words and music in the 18th century at Bocconi University in Milan.

L.Bianchini & A.Trombetta

Our Books

With a meticulous approach, these books delve deep into investigation, rejecting hearsay. Sources are meticulously verified and critically examined, particularly primary sources, which undergo rigorous scrutiny and evaluation.

Cover image of the book Mozart in Italy by Luca Bianchini and Anna Trombetta. Below the title, a carriage is depicted with two people who have disembarked and are approaching an inn

Latest Articles

Explore the flaws, contradictions, and lesser-known truths behind one of history’s most celebrated composers.

The Mozart Myth Unveiled: A Deeper Look

The Mozart Myth Unveiled: A Deeper Look

Mozart’s legacy is far from the untarnished narrative of genius that history would have us believe. The web of deceit woven around his name by those closest to him, including his own widow, reveals a much darker story.

The Other Side of Mozart’s Legacy

The Other Side of Mozart’s Legacy

Explore the untold story of Mozart, where myth and reality collide. Our critical examination of his life and works reveals a legacy shaped by profit, myth-making, and misattribution. Join us in uncovering the truth behind the man and his music.

The Deception Surrounding Mozart’s Legacy

The Deception Surrounding Mozart’s Legacy

Anton Eberl’s confrontation with Constanze in 1798 exposed a web of deceit surrounding Mozart’s legacy, revealing that several of his compositions were falsely attributed to the late composer. This chapter uncovers the ethical dilemmas and controversies that have marred the posthumous reputation of one of history’s most celebrated musicians.

Leopold’s Invisible Hand

Leopold’s Invisible Hand

Behind the glittering performances of young Wolfgang and Nannerl Mozart lay the meticulous guidance of their father, Leopold. Often considered a mere teacher, Leopold’s role in composing and shaping their early musical successes has been largely overlooked. Was the child prodigy truly a genius, or was it Leopold who orchestrated his son’s rise to fame?

Debunking the Romantic Virtuoso Image

Debunking the Romantic Virtuoso Image

The image of Mozart as a Romantic-era virtuoso is a misleading anachronism, fuelled by 19th-century propaganda. Wolfgang was no transcendental pianist, but a product of an era where music was more galant than heroic.

The Visit to Verona

The Visit to Verona

In Verona, young Wolfgang Mozart impressed the local nobility, but the reality behind the scenes reveals a carefully managed public image, where strategic networking and curated praise played key roles in shaping his growing reputation.

Events

Discover the latest interviews, talks, and behind-the-scenes insights into the untold story of Mozart.

Teaching Mozart at Bocconi University

Teaching Mozart at Bocconi University

We delivered a four-hour lecture on Mozart at Bocconi University, showcasing unpublished music by Gasparini, Gatti, and Tozzi while comparing textual and musical treatment with Mozart’s works. Unseen variants from Le Nozze di Figaro were also revealed.

Modern Premieres at Bayreuth

Modern Premieres at Bayreuth

The modern premieres of Antonio Tozzi, Luigi Gatti, and Tommaso Traetta’s works at Bayreuth brought long-overlooked Italian composers back into the spotlight. These performances, transcribed and revised by Luca Bianchini and Anna Trombetta, have restored the place of these remarkable composers in music history.

Luchesi’s Concerto Revived at Milan’s Sala Verdi

Luchesi’s Concerto Revived at Milan’s Sala Verdi

A standing ovation followed the performance of our revised edition of Luchesi’s Concerto in F for piano and strings at the Sala Verdi in Milan, conducted by Maestro Giorgio Rodolfo Marini and performed by the Insubria Chamber Orchestra.

A Modern Premiere in Germany

A Modern Premiere in Germany

Giovanni Pacini’s Medea, revised by Luca Bianchini and Anna Trombetta, made its modern premiere in Germany at the Theater für Niedersachsen. This monumental work was performed in full, marking a triumphant revival of Pacini’s forgotten genius.

Mozart Unveiled on Radio Vaticana

Mozart Unveiled on Radio Vaticana

Experience the power of critical musicology as Luca Bianchini and Anna Trombetta present their groundbreaking insights on Mozart’s legacy on the prestigious Radio Vaticana. Each episode unveils secrets and challenges the myths surrounding this celebrated composer.

In the Spotlight

Are you ready to meet the real Mozart? Our videos, like our posts, will take you on a journey of discovery
into his life and works, without censorship or idealisation.

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