Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart (1756-1791)

    A child prodigy, Mozart is best known for lyrical melodies. He composed in almost every popular form including operas, symphonies, concertos, string quartets, and piano sonatas. In many ways, the music of Mozart defines the music of the Classical Era. Formal design, such as the sonata and concerto form, was refined by Mozart. His expressive changes created through dynamics and instrumentation paved the way for development by composers of the Romantic Era. In much of his later music, an emphasis is placed on emotional context and dramatic interpretation.