The Great German Composers, Biographical Notices, from the Germ. by C.P.S. (Paperback)

This historic book may have numerous typos and missing text. Purchasers can download a free scanned copy of the original book (without typos) from the publisher. Not indexed. Not illustrated. 1879 Excerpt: ...and so charmed were they with the performance that they promised to announce Mozart's arrival in Vienna beforehand, and urged him to visit them as soon as possible. It was in the small town of Ips, where a short halt was made, that Wolfgang tried his powers on the organ of the Franciscan Convent for the first time; and he played so beautifully that the brothers, who were just at their dinner, hastened to the chapel and loudly expressed their admiration for the juvenile artist. On the 9th October Mozart and his children at last arrived at their destination, where their reputation had already preceded them. No sooner r did their arrival become known than they received an invitation to the Court at Schonbrunn. A state-coach having conveyed them thither, they were ushered into the presence of the Imperial family. On the way Leopold Mozart enjoined his children not to be afraid. "Oh, I am not afraid," replied Wolfgang, "only I hope there will be some one who can appreciate music." The Empress received them so graciously and kindly that Leopold Mozart wrote to his wife, "You would think I was relating a fable if I were to tell you all the kindness she heaped upon us." Wolfgang and his sister had played a sonata for four hands, and now it was Wolfgang's turn to play a solo. The Emperor himself lifted him up to the chair, and sat down behind him. "But where is Wagenseil?" asked Wolfgang, referring to the music-master of the young Princes. "And why do you want him?" "I should like him to be here because he knows this piece." When Wagenseil had come, Mozart added, "I am so glad you are here, I am just going to play one of your compositions, and I want you to turn over the leaves for me." Wolfgang's...