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

Selected Research Papers on Mozart

  • DOI: 10.5281/zenodo.15761549
    Documentation of Academic Reception and Peer Review of “Mozart. The Fall of the Gods”

    University adoptions, peer-reviewed evaluations, and the academic debate surrounding Mozart. La caduta degli dei.
    (2017–2018, with materials from Ca’ Foscari and Philomusica)

    Read on Zenodo

  • DOI: 10.5281/zenodo.15727568
    Enlightenment on the Edge: Mozart, Goethe, Mayr, and the Illuminati

    New discoveries on Mozart, Goethe, Mayr, and musical Enlightenment, with a focus on secret societies and cultural propaganda.
    (Including The Magic Flute, Enlightenment literature and music)

    Read on Zenodo

  • DOI: 10.5281/zenodo.15676595
    Mozart’s So-Called Thematic Catalogue: Forensic Evidence of a Posthumous Forgery

    Forensic and historical analysis of Mozart’s so-called thematic catalogue: documentary evidence, ink studies, and handwriting comparison.
    (Full research version – as referenced in IGS2023 proceedings)

    Read on Zenodo

  • DOI: 10.5281/zenodo.15646933
    A Questionable Catalogue — Poster (IGS2023, Évora)

    Visual summary and methodology of the forensic analysis of Mozart’s Verzeichnüss aller meiner Werke, presented at IGS2023.
    (Poster session, Évora 2023)

    Download Poster

  • DOI: 10.5281/zenodo.15639264
    A Questionable Catalogue — Extended Abstract (IGS2023, Évora)

    Official extended abstract, summarizing the critical study and authentication techniques on Mozart’s manuscripts.
    (IGS2023, Évora – October 2023)

    Read Abstract


ORCID profile ORCID 0009-0003-4067-9222

Blog

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

The Man Behind the Myth

The Man Behind the Myth

Leopold Mozart’s legacy has been shaped by myths and hagiographies, but his letters reveal a man more concerned with financial gain and self-promotion than artistic integrity. Was he truly a devoted father, or simply an opportunist?

Constanze vs. The Catholic Church

Constanze vs. The Catholic Church

For over two centuries, scholars have debated the circumstances surrounding Mozart’s burial. Constanze Mozart’s supposed inability to mark his grave, the confrontation with the Catholic Church over funeral masses, and the baffling disappearance of Mozart’s body all contribute to a mystery stranger than fiction. Did a powerful group keep her silent? And what really happened to Mozart’s remains?

Constanze Mozart’s Enduring Love

Constanze Mozart’s Enduring Love

Although some have doubted her devotion, Constanze’s own words and actions illustrate a widow deeply committed to preserving Mozart’s legacy. Diaries, personal correspondence, and eyewitness testimony all challenge the notion that she neglected his memory—while the circumstances around his burial grow ever more perplexing.

A Revealing New Interview on His Thematic Catalogue

A Revealing New Interview on His Thematic Catalogue

We’re excited to present a brand-new interview that challenges many of the long-held assumptions about Mozart’s Thematic Catalogue (1784–1791). Conducted by Swedish journalist Henry Grynnsten, this conversation delves into groundbreaking forensic techniques—like advanced ink analysis and digital image processing—that may change the way we view Mozart’s late works.

The Rattling Symphony: A Critical Take on K. 17

The Rattling Symphony: A Critical Take on K. 17

Often attributed to Mozart, the K. 17 symphony is anything but refined. Lacking orchestration and filled with gaps, it raises more questions than answers about its true authorship.

The Hidden Origins of the Salzburg Festival: A Nationalist Dream

The Hidden Origins of the Salzburg Festival: A Nationalist Dream

The Salzburg Festival, far from being a mere celebration of Mozart’s genius, was born out of nationalist ambitions during a turbulent period in Austro-German history. Conceived by figures like Max Reinhardt, Heinrich Damisch, and Friedrich Gehmacher, the festival was deeply rooted in ultranationalistic ideals, transforming Mozart’s legacy into a tool for cultural dominance. The truth behind its founding has long been obscured, but the primary sources tell a different, darker story.

Events

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

No Results Found

The page you requested could not be found. Try refining your search, or use the navigation above to locate the post.

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.

No Results Found

The page you requested could not be found. Try refining your search, or use the navigation above to locate the post.

What Experts Say

* By submitting this form, you agree to the processing of your personal data as described in our Privacy Policy