| By Aaron Tavena For many, the name Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart is synonymous with genius. Composer of more than 626 pieces of music, Mozart left a body of work that has been forever loved, studied, honored and treasured. A quarter of a millennium after Mozart's birth, his music continues to inspire in both film and theater. In addition to having his music used in more than 150 films, Mozart's life story was the subject of 1985‘s Oscar-triumphant "Amadeus." Although the prodigy was born in the Austrian city of Salzburg, Prague and Mozart have shared a history that resulted in some of Mozart's greatest compositions, and his Concerto in A Major for Clarinet premiered in Prague just seven weeks before his death. As a commemoration of his life's work, this city of inspiration is holding a year-long celebration on this 250th year after his death. From January 7 through December 31, 2006, the Four Seasons Hotel Prague grants guests an opportunity for immersion in a Mozart experience. Available for the full calendar year, the package includes the extravagant luxuries for which Four Seasons is known, with additional bonuses like a six-hour limo ride to many Mozart-frequented sites. The Four Seasons tours are by appointment only, and are guided by experts to point out every nuance of Prague's connection to the composer. Included are stops at the Villa Bertramka, Mozart's home in Prague, and St. Nicholas's Church, where more than 4,000 people gathered to hear Mozart's Requiem on December 14, 1791, following his death on December 5th. Other significant stops include the Estate Theater, where Mozart conducted Le Nozze di Figaro and Prague (Symphony No. 38) and held the world premiere for Don Giovanni. As a special event, the National Marionette Theatre is also presenting a unique performance of Don Giovanni, using life-sized marionettes in period costume set to the effects originally used in their 18th Century performance. As part of the package, Four Seasons' guests will be treated to a horse drawn carriage ride and a walk along the cobbled streets where scenes for "Amadeus" were filmed. This is a real treat for film aficionados, since much of the lavish designs used in Amadeus are authentic locations rather than less lively stage sets. The nexus between Prague and Mozart can be seen clearly in the film, the story of Mozart's final days before his untimely death at age 35. Amadeus is narrated by the musician's contemporary, the seethingly jealous court composer Antonio Salieri, portrayed by F. Murray Abraham. With eight statuettes, including Best Picture and Best Art Direction, the atmosphere of Prague was sealed in celluloid and preserved for your visiting pleasure. After 250 years, the city mined for inspiration by Mozart, and the music inspired by it, is duly celebrated. |
