Customer Reviews

Mozart the Freemason: The Masonic Influence on His Musical Genius

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Some say that the Masons are a benevolent charitable organization; others claim they are a sinister group bent on world domination. But everyone agrees that Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart was a devoted member of the illustrious society. With Mozart the Freemason, Jacques Henry, a Mozart authority and a high-ranking Freemason, explores the influence of Masonry on Mozart's life and music.

Several of Mozart's works are known for their Masonic elements, such as his final opera, The Magic Flute, which features motifs familiar to any Freemason, such as Temples of Wisdom and Reason and Nature, and trials which must be endured in silence. Henry discusses The Magic Flute and several concertos that were specifically commissioned to be played at Masonic ceremonies. He also suggests that the harsh opening of Mozart's Dissonance Quartet represents the unformed man before he is shaped by Masonic discipline.

Whether inspired by Masonic love for his fellow man or a need for funds, Mozart was an incredibly prolific composer, capable of banging out a concerto overnight or a symphony over a long weekend. Few have written as quickly, fewer still have written as well, and nobody has ever combined Mozart's speed and genius. One could hardly ask for a better poster child for Masonry than Mozart, or a better biographer than Jacques Henry.
Mysteries Magazine

This is a well written, well researched book which provides a deep look at not just Mozart's overtly Masonic works, but also a number of his other pieces which the author argues are expressions of the composer's Masonic beliefs and experiences. Very interesting, but at times it seems a bit of a reach. Mostly, however, the analysis is solid.

It is imperative to listen to the piece under discussion to fully see (or should I say hear) the author's point. This is not a book one can just sit down and read cover to cover, but in conjunction with the music, it is insightful and thought provoking.