Paul Johnson is a historian who has written several brief, detailed biographies, of great figures that are not intimidating for the general reader. This is a warm exploration of Mozart's music and a remedy to the many myths surrounding the composer. Mozart did not die in poverty, had a happy marriage, and a tremendous work ethic. He was a devout Catholic and also, somewhat paradoxically for the time, a member of a masonic order. It may be a surprise to some that Mozart was fanatical about dancing and an expert billiards player. (He was probably one of only a handful of people to have a pool table in his home in Vienna.) Johnson has provided a worthwhile read for anyone amazed by Mozart's musical innovations.
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