“I live in a country where music has very little success, though, exclusive of those who have forsaken us, we have still admirable professors and, more particularly, composers of great solidity, knowledge, and taste.”
- January 27, 1756 – December 5, 1791
- Born in Salzburg (Austria)
- Composer
- Left behind many masterpieces such as “The Marriage of Figaro,” “Don Giovanni,” and “The Magic Flute”
Quote
“I live in a country where music has very little success, though, exclusive of those who have forsaken us, we have still admirable professors and, more particularly, composers of great solidity, knowledge, and taste.”
Explanation
In this quote, Mozart reflects on the lack of recognition and support for music in his homeland, despite the presence of highly skilled professors and composers. He acknowledges the value and talent within the local music scene, despite the broader societal context that does not always appreciate or reward artistic pursuits. This comment could be seen as a critique of the musical environment in the late 18th century, especially in the Austrian Empire, where Mozart’s career unfolded. While the nobility and royal patrons supported music, it was often difficult for composers to gain widespread recognition, particularly in an era where patronage was central to a composer’s success.
The historical context is important here—Mozart’s career spanned a period of significant musical transition, from the Baroque to the Classical era. Despite his fame today, during his lifetime, he faced challenges in achieving the financial stability and public recognition that his music merited. In many ways, Mozart’s comment reflects the difficulty of achieving success in a field that was heavily dependent on external support and patronage, which could be fickle and limiting for artists.
In modern times, this sentiment can still be observed, as many artists and musicians find it hard to gain mainstream success in environments where commercialization often overshadows artistic merit. Even today, many highly talented composers and musicians may be overlooked or underappreciated, despite their great ability. This highlights the ongoing struggle for artistic recognition, where cultural and institutional forces can make it difficult for true talent to be widely acknowledged, though many, like Mozart, continue to create and contribute significantly to their fields.
