THE SYMPHONY – PREPARATION 10

(S-09)

For Monday Nov 30

Read the letters that Mozart wrote from Paris , from his arrival in March 1778 through the death of his mother in July. They’re on reserve in the library and also posted online. The xerox includes letters by his mother and father also and you can read those for context if you like. But you’re responsible only for letters by Wolfgang dated 24 March, 5 April, 1 May, 14 May, 29 May, 12 June, 3 July (2 letters), and 9 July.

Also listen to the Paris Symphony (K.297). It’s on Naxos, and the score is at IMSLP.

Answer the following questions:

1) Do the letters explain Mozart’s purpose in going to Mannheim and Paris? If not, can you find this information in another source? What source? How does this purpose illuminate these letters?

2) Which letters discuss the Paris Symphony? Do they give any information that helps you understand the symphony?

3) Explain the two letters that Mozart wrote on July 3. What is their relation to one another?

4) What impression do you get from these letters of Mozart’s character? Do the letters change your view of his character?