By a Content Creator at payoffsong.com
Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, a name synonymous with musical genius, was an incredibly prolific composer. His vast body of work spans operas, symphonies, concertos, choral pieces, string quartets, and various smaller ensembles. To truly appreciate his impact, let’s explore 15 of his most famous and greatest compositions that continue to resonate with audiences worldwide.
From his early days as a celebrated child prodigy, Mozart’s destiny in music was evident. By the tender age of three, he was already playing the piano, composing at four, and astonishing royalty with performances and ten symphonies written by the age of twelve. Despite his remarkable industriousness, anecdotes reveal a playful side to the young composer. Stories abound of his fondness for cats and a rather earthy sense of humor, even finding its way subtly into his compositions.
Beyond the playful anecdotes, Mozart’s music delves into the deepest human emotions. From exhilarating symphonies to profoundly moving requiems, enchanting operas, and technically brilliant concertos, Mozart crafted a musical legacy that is both diverse and deeply impactful. Here are 15 of the most famous songs and pieces that highlight his unparalleled talent.
Read more: Discover the first piece composed by Mozart at the age of five
1. Requiem in D minor, K. 626
Mozart’s Requiem stands as a monumental example of music’s profound power. Commissioned anonymously, this piece became an intensely personal and deeply emotional journey for Mozart. As he began composing, he confessed to experiencing “very strange thoughts,” fearing he was writing music for his own passing. Tragically, his premonition proved true. This epic Requiem is imbued with a spectrum of emotions: fearful apprehension, solemn acceptance, and a sense of divine retribution.
Unfinished at the time of Mozart’s untimely death in 1791, the Requiem is a raw and authentic expression of emotions that transcend words. The hauntingly beautiful “Lacrimosa,” particularly moving around the 22:50 mark in many performances, exemplifies the work’s emotional depth.
Mozart Requiem performance by Orchestre national de France, a famous song showcasing his genius.
2. Horn Concerto No. 4 in E-flat major, K. 495
A cheerful and instantly uplifting piece, Mozart’s Horn Concerto No. 4 is characterized by its bright horn melody and playful string accompaniment. Composed in 1786 for his friend Joseph Leutgeb, a renowned horn virtuoso, the manuscript holds a peculiar detail: Mozart used multicolored ink, switching between red, green, blue, and black. Whether this was a playful jest at his soloist’s expense or a hidden code remains a mystery.
Regardless of the ink’s significance, the concerto is undeniably captivating. Its memorable melodies and spirited energy make it a favorite. The rondo movement, in particular, is a delightful showcase of the horn’s agility and lyrical capabilities.
Performance of Rondo from Mozart's Horn Concerto Nr 4 by Berlin Philharmonic Brass, a famous and joyful piece.
3. The Marriage of Figaro, K. 492 – Overture
The overture to The Marriage of Figaro is a miniature masterpiece in itself. Within the first eight bars, Mozart masterfully encapsulates the opera’s narrative through mischievous, scurrying strings contrasted with grand wind and brass fanfares. Lively, witty, and brimming with humor, this opera exemplifies Mozart’s comedic genius.
The Marriage of Figaro is a classic tale of love and intrigue, filled with mistaken identities, clever deceptions, and humorous situations. Musical highlights abound, including the spirited aria “Non più andrai” and the enchanting duet “Sull’aria” between Susanna and the Countess as they conspire to expose the Count’s infidelity.
Overture of The Marriage of Figaro performed by the Orchestra of The Royal Opera House, a famous and energetic piece.
4. Piano Concerto No. 21 in C major, K. 467, ‘Elvira Madigan’
Mozart’s Piano Concerto No. 21, often nicknamed ‘Elvira Madigan’ due to its prominent use in film scores, is celebrated for its captivating melodies and joyful character. It’s a prime example of Mozart at his most exuberant, with a playful brilliance in the solo piano writing.
Composed in 1785, this concerto has gained widespread recognition through its appearances in films like Superman Returns, the James Bond movie The Spy Who Loved Me, and most famously, the 1967 romantic drama Elvira Madigan, which solidified its popular nickname. The second movement, Andante, is particularly famous for its serene and melancholic beauty.
Performance of Mozart's Piano Concerto No. 21 in C major, a famous and beloved piece known as Elvira Madigan.
5. Così fan tutte, K. 588 – “Soave sia il vento”
Così fan tutte, one of Mozart’s later and most admired operas, is a rich and rewarding listening experience. The libretto, by Mozart’s frequent collaborator Lorenzo da Ponte, is a playful exploration of love and fidelity, featuring swapped fiancés, disguises, and humorous trickery, all set to Mozart’s masterful music.
The opera is renowned for its exceptional vocal writing, including the sublime trio “Soave sia il vento.” This trio, sung by Fiordiligi, Dorabella, and Don Alfonso, is a moment of exquisite beauty and tranquility, showcasing Mozart’s ability to blend voices in perfect harmony.
Così fan tutte Act I trio 'Soave sia il vento' performed at The Royal Opera, a famous and beautiful vocal piece.
6. Clarinet Quintet in A major, K. 581
Mozart penned two enduringly popular pieces for the clarinet, both for the clarinettist Anton Stadler. The first of these was the Clarinet Quintet, scored for a string quartet and solo clarinet. Originally written for the basset clarinet, an early form of the instrument, Mozart’s quintet is a pioneering work in the clarinet repertoire.
It stands as one of the earliest and most cherished pieces for the instrument. Its playful, lyrical lines and engaging dialogue between the clarinet and strings create a truly joyful and intimate listening experience. The Larghetto movement is particularly admired for its serene and expressive melody.
Mozart's Clarinet Quintet in A major KV 581 performed by WDR Sinfonieorchester, a famous and joyful piece for clarinet.
7. The Magic Flute, K. 620 – “Queen of the Night” Aria
Mozart’s The Magic Flute is celebrated for its epic storytelling and dramatic flair, securing its place as a cornerstone of opera history. With Masonic symbolism, a heroic prince, a serpent, and a magical flute capable of influencing hearts, the opera is filled with suspense, drama, and a touch of the supernatural.
Adding to its fame is the iconic and incredibly challenging “Queen of the Night” aria, “Der Hölle Rache kocht in meinem Herzen.” This aria, requiring extraordinary vocal agility and range, has been performed by countless opera stars, with Diana Damrau’s interpretation being particularly acclaimed.
Queen of the Night aria from The Magic Flute performed by Diana Damrau at The Royal Opera, a famous and challenging vocal piece.
8. Symphony No. 41 in C major, K. 551, ‘Jupiter’
Symphony No. 41, aptly nicknamed ‘Jupiter’, serves as a majestic culmination of Mozart’s symphonic output. Representing Mozart at his peak musical maturity, this symphony showcases his mastery in balancing memorable melodies with grand orchestral moments.
Drawing upon over 30 years of composing experience, Mozart’s final symphony is both impressive and uplifting. Its nickname ‘Jupiter’, though not given by Mozart himself but by the music impresario Johann Peter Salomon, perfectly captures its grandeur and celestial quality. The finale, with its intricate counterpoint, is a tour-de-force of compositional brilliance.
Mozart's Symphony No. 41 C-Dur KV 551 Jupiter performed by hr-Sinfonieorchester, a famous and majestic symphony.
9. Clarinet Concerto in A major, K. 622
Mozart’s Clarinet Concerto in A major is one of his final compositions, written shortly before his death in 1791. Whether it was a surge of late-life inspiration or a deliberate saving of his best for last, this concerto stands as a testament to his enduring genius.
Graceful yet vibrant, the clarinet’s warm tone beautifully brings the simple yet profound melodies to life. Its timeless appeal and melodic beauty have made it a consistent favorite in classical music polls and concert halls worldwide.
Mozart's Clarinet Concerto performed by Jochen Tschabrun with Alondra de la Parra conducting, a famous and graceful concerto.
10. Exsultate, jubilate, K. 165
Composed at the young age of 17, Exsultate, jubilate is a stunning motet showcasing Mozart’s precocious talent. Written for solo soprano and orchestra during a stay in Milan for a production of his opera Lucio Silla, inspiration struck, resulting in this joyful and virtuosic piece.
The fourth and final movement, “Alleluia,” based on religious texts, remains a beloved showpiece for sopranos globally. Its brilliant vocal writing and uplifting spirit make it a popular choice for concerts and recitals.
11. Mass No. 15 in C major, K. 317, ‘Coronation Mass’
The ‘Coronation’ Mass is considered one of Mozart’s most significant sacred works. Notably lighter in tone compared to his Requiem, this mass reflects a period when Mozart was not preoccupied with thoughts of mortality.
Composed when Mozart was just 23, this mass is both regal and uplifting, demonstrating classical choral music at its finest. Likely premiered at Salzburg Cathedral on Easter Sunday, 1779, its first documented performance was at the coronation of Francis II as Holy Roman Emperor in 1792, an event Mozart did not live to witness. The “Agnus Dei” is particularly known for its lyrical beauty.
Mozart's Coronation Mass in C major K.317 conducted by Laurence Equilbey, a famous and regal choral work.
12. Ave verum corpus, K. 618
Mozart’s hymn, ‘Ave verum corpus’, is a short but profoundly moving piece, often described as a musical balm for the soul. This famous setting of the Latin text was composed in his final year during a visit to Austria to see his wife Constanze.
Lasting only around three minutes and comprised of just 46 bars, its brevity belies its emotional depth. In moments of quiet contemplation, listening to ‘Ave verum corpus’ can be a deeply healing and spiritual experience.
13. Don Giovanni, K. 527 – Overture
Don Giovanni is an opera characterized by intense drama from its opening notes. It tells the story of a deceitful libertine and his eventual descent into damnation. However, Mozart masterfully balances the opera’s darker elements with moments of romance and genuine human connection.
The opera is celebrated for its dramatic intensity and musical richness. Notable highlights include the Act 1 duet “Là ci darem la mano” and Leporello’s humorous “Catalogue Aria,” showcasing the opera’s blend of drama and wit. The overture itself is a thrilling introduction to the opera’s dramatic world.
Overture to Mozart's Don Giovanni K. 527 performed in Prague, a famous and dramatic opera overture.
14. Symphony No. 40 in G minor, K. 550
Nicknamed ‘The Great G minor’, Mozart’s Symphony No. 40 is immediately powerful and filled with some of classical music’s most recognizable melodies. Expertly contrasting moments of lightness and darkness, this symphony was composed during a more challenging period in Mozart’s life.
Facing declining concert engagements, financial strain, and grief over the loss of his infant daughter Theresia, Mozart expressed in letters his struggle to maintain optimism. The result is one of only two symphonies Mozart wrote in a minor key, and it is widely regarded as one of the greatest symphonies ever composed. The first movement, Molto allegro, is particularly iconic and emotionally charged.
Mozart's Symphony No. 40 g-Moll KV 550 performed by hr-Sinfonieorchester, a famous and powerful symphony in G minor.
15. Oboe Concerto in C major, K. 314
Mozart seemingly perfected the art of oboe concerto writing with his first attempt. Almost 250 years after its creation, the Oboe Concerto in C major remains a cornerstone of the modern oboe repertoire. Upbeat, cheerful, and serenely beautiful, it is a piece that has undeniably stood the test of time.
Mozart clearly held this concerto in high regard. He repurposed a portion of its final movement in an aria from his 1781 opera, Die Entführung aus dem Serail, and even adapted the entire concerto for flute, albeit somewhat reluctantly, in response to a commission. Its sunny disposition and elegant melodies make it a perennial favorite.
W.A. Mozart’s Oboe Concerto in C Major KV 314 performed by Warsaw Philharmonic Orchestra, a famous and cheerful concerto for oboe.
Discover more famous Mozart songs and pieces by exploring the full range of his works. His music continues to inspire and captivate audiences centuries after its creation.
