Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart is known to all as one of the most legendary and influential composers in the history of music. His stature as a composer and musician is unrivaled, however, we see through his correspondences with others that he is also a humble and caring figure. Through his many letters to friends, family and fellow colleagues, we see Mozart as a man of great formality and significant humility. He often refers to himself as “your sincere friend and servant” (230) as well as “your most grateful” (248). At the beginning of each letter, Mozart begins with an amiable greeting, regardless of who the intended receiver of the letter is. He often writes, “Dearest, best of Friends!” (242) to many of his colleagues, effectively offering a glimpse onto the caring and humble nature of the great musician.

In addition to his many expressions of humility, Mozart also depicts his love towards his family on multiple occasions. When addressing his loving wife, he ends his letter with “I kiss you a million times most tenderly, and am ever thine, true until death.” (240). Mozart also addresses her as “my blooming flower” or “my dearest”, showing the great love that the esteemed musician holds for his beloved. Mozart’s care is not only limited to his wife however. When addressing his father, the legendary musician expresses great concern when it is revealed that his father has fallen ill. Despite his severe worry, Mozart offers his complete assistance to his father and shows his support for him despite their strained relationship in the past. Unfortunately, through future letters with Mozart’s sister, we learn that his father has indeed passed away. As a result of this tragedy, it is clear that the one thing Mozart holds in a higher regard then his own musical creations is his relationship with his family.

However, while being a gentle and caring gentleman, Mozart is not always a loving character. Throughout his letters with his colleagues, the composer harshly criticizes and ridicules others with what may appear to be a sharp sense of hubris. In a letter to his father, Mozart begins by stating, “I am very displeased that my letter has failed to reach your hands through Mile Storace’s stupidity.” (232) It is evident through such exchanges, that Mozart holds his dear friends and family in an ultimately high regard, but does little to recognize those who do not affect directly.

Through his many correspondences, we see that the legendary musician is not only a man of immense musical genius but also a man with deep love for his wife, family and colleagues. He addresses his friends with the highest of regards and writes to his family with love that springs from the pages. Yet, in some instances he writes with a callous bluntness that reveals his hidden sense of superiority. However, despite these impurities Mozart’s letters offer views into the mind and heart of the man that many consider to be the greatest musical mind of in the history of classical composition.