Mozart: Rise Of A Genius | Preview (BBC Two)

This series tells the extraordinary story of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart; a child prodigy, a flawed human and a composer the like of which the world has never seen.

Blending Mozart’s letters, music manuscripts, and performances of some of his most famous pieces, this series reveals how Mozart defied the social conventions of his time, battled against his domineering father and overcame his own demons, to channel his genius into some of the greatest musical works in history.

Cinematic drama vignettes depict Mozart’s life alongside a host of stars, world-leading musicians and experts including Stephen Fry, Sheila Hancock, Richard E Grant, Chris Addison, Adjoa Andoh, Karla Crome, Ed Gardner, Lucy Crowe, Golda Shultz, David McVicar, Dr. Robert Greenburg, Jane Glover, James Hawes and Dr. Flora Willson. The series is narrated by Juliet Stevenson.

Each episode takes a deep dive into Mozart's key works; from the enduringly popular Marriage of Figaro to the lesser-known gems such as his A Minor Piano Sonata, the early opera Idomeneo, and the 31st “Paris” Symphony.

Mozart’s journey starts as a 21-year-old, trapped in Salzburg. Once a famous child prodigy, astounding audiences all over Europe and the Royal Society in London officially proclaiming his genius, he now feels that his glory days are over.

After trying to make it in Mannheim and then Paris he finally breaks free from his oppressive father and makes his way to Vienna, where he becomes rich and famous, revolutionizing the music scene.

Mozart: Rise of a Genius begins Monday 16th September at 9pm on BBC Two.