Famous works · Classical
Requiem in D minor, K. 626
Unfinished at Mozart's death, 5 December 1791
Mozart's final work, left unfinished and surrounded by legend.
The story behind it
It was commissioned anonymously by Count Franz von Walsegg, who wanted to pass it off as his own memorial for his late wife.
Mozart died before finishing it. His widow Constanze had it completed, chiefly by his student Franz Xaver Süssmayr, so she could collect the fee.
The mystery of the commission fed later myths, including the rivalry with Salieri dramatised in the play and film Amadeus.
What to listen for
- The Lacrimosa — Mozart wrote only its first eight bars.
- The fierce double choir of the Dies irae.