#365 in our old book database. Not rated.

With a focus on the last decade of Mozart's life, Francis Carr examines his personal relationships, with a special focus on his life with Constanze. Mozart's marriage did not receive his father's approval and there was plenty of turmoil. Carr also discusses in detail at the circumstances of Mozart's early death and hasty funeral. His conclusion is one with which many may not agree but it is not unreasonable. In fact, Maynard Solomon's comprehensive biography reviews the documentation and concludes that there is no consensus with regard to the specific cause of Mozart's death. This short biography is successful in its focus on the last years of Mozart's musical life. ( )

This is an interesting take on the life of Mozart. I didn't fully enjoy the book but it was very informative. If you've seen the play/movie Amadeus it is worth looking into the real life of the composer. I'm not a Mozart fan, partially because of his music and partially because of his life. This book had a lot to do with that, I think. It is a decent read and informative, if a little droll (for what an excessive life Mozart led.) ( )