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My Life as a Woman Composer: The Extraordinary Journey of Maria Anna Mozart

Brian West

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Maria Anna Mozart, known as Nannerl, was the older sister of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart. She was born in Salzburg, Austria, in 1751. Nannerl was a gifted musician, and her father, Leopold Mozart, gave her a thorough musical education. She began composing at a young age, and her works were praised by her contemporaries.

My Life as a Woman Composer

by Emma Lou Diemer

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	120891 KB
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Lending	:	Enabled
Print length	:	460 pages

However, as a woman, Nannerl's opportunities were limited. She was not allowed to perform in public or publish her music. Instead, she was expected to marry and raise a family. In 1784, she married Franz Xaver Süßmayr, a composer and music teacher. They had five children together.

Despite the challenges she faced, Nannerl continued to compose throughout her life. She wrote over 100 pieces, including sonatas, concertos, and symphonies. Her music is now being rediscovered and performed by musicians around the world.

In her book, My Life as a Woman Composer, Nannerl tells the story of her life and career. She provides a unique glimpse into the world of women composers in the 18th century. Her book is a valuable resource for anyone interested in women's history, music history, or the life of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart.

Chapter 1: My Childhood
Chapter 2: My Education
Chapter 3: My Career
Chapter 4: My Marriage and Family
Chapter 5: My Legacy

Chapter 1: My Childhood

I was born in Salzburg, Austria, on July 30, 1751. My father, Leopold Mozart, was a composer and music teacher. My mother, Anna Maria Pertl, was the daughter of a wealthy merchant. I had two younger brothers, Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart and Karl Thomas Mozart.

I began playing the harpsichord at the age of four. My father taught me music, and I quickly showed a talent for it. By the age of six, I was composing my own pieces.

Maria Anna Mozart As A Child My Life As A Woman Composer

In 1762, my father took me and Wolfgang on a concert tour of Europe. We performed in front of royalty and other influential people. I was praised for my playing and my compositions.

Chapter 2: My Education

My father gave me a thorough musical education. I studied composition, harmony, and counterpoint. I also learned to play the violin, the viola, and the organ.

In addition to my musical education, I also received a general education. I studied Latin, French, Italian, and history.

Maria Anna Mozart Playing The Harpsichord My Life As A Woman Composer

I was a gifted student, and I excelled in all of my subjects. I was especially good at mathematics and science.

Chapter 3: My Career

As a woman, my career opportunities were limited. I was not allowed to perform in public or publish my music. Instead, I was expected to marry and raise a family.

However, I continued to compose throughout my life. I wrote over 100 pieces, including sonatas, concertos, and symphonies. My music was praised by my contemporaries, but it was never published or performed in public.

Maria Anna Mozart With Her Children My Life As A Woman Composer

In 1784, I married Franz Xaver Süßmayr, a composer and music teacher. We had five children together.

After my marriage, I continued to compose, but I also focused on raising my family. I taught my children music, and I helped them with their homework.

Chapter 4: My Marriage and Family

I was married to Franz Xaver Süßmayr for 24 years. We had five children together. Our marriage was a happy one, and I was devoted to my husband and children.

My husband was a supportive of my music. He encouraged me to continue composing, and he helped me to get my music performed.

Maria Anna Mozart And Her Husband My Life As A Woman Composer

I was a loving mother to my children. I taught them music, and I helped them with their homework. I also made sure that they had a good education.

Chapter 5: My Legacy

I died in Salzburg, Austria, on October 29, 1829. I was 78 years old. I am buried in the same cemetery as my brother, Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart.

My music was forgotten for many years after my death. However, in the 20th century, my music was rediscovered and performed by musicians around the world.

Memorial To Maria Anna Mozart In Salzburg My Life As A Woman Composer

I am now recognized as one of the most important women composers of the 18th century. My music is praised for its beauty, its originality, and its craftsmanship.

I am a role model for women composers today. I show that it is possible to be a successful composer, even in the face of adversity. I am an inspiration to women everywhere.

My Life as a Woman Composer

by Emma Lou Diemer

5 out of 5