Mozart’s energetic efforts produced his three last symphonies, #39, 40 and 41, on June 26, July 25 and August 10 of 1788. This group stands apart from his previous symphonic repertoire in innovation, emotion, increased dissonance, and profound content.
Mozart’s amazing productivity at this time was in marked contrast to the depressing personal struggles in his life. First of all, he was financially broke. Viennese audiences had moved on to favor other composers and his popularity declined.
Consequently, he had few concert opportunities and commissions were lacking. He begged for help from his friend Michael Puchberg, “Just imagine my situation: sick and full of worry and grief… I am forced to sell my quartets for a trifle just to get some cash into my hands and meet my immediate obligations…”
And the first of these three masterpieces came into existence on June 26, 1788.
Here is the Frankfurt Radio Symphony Orchestra to play this music for you. It is my humble tribute to Wolfgang Mozart on the 230th anniversary of his death on December 5, 1791.
