As part of the experiential learning project, the task was to examine a composer's life, work, and the context of their compositions. Questions were provided, and four of them were picked for discussion.

Who?

For this question, the focus was on Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, an accomplished composer who produced numerous works of art from operas, symphonies to piano pieces. Mozart was born in Austria in 1756, and he began playing the piano and writing music at a very young age. Despite his young age, he was already performing for royalty at the age of 7, and he rose to fame as a performer across Europe. Mozart married a woman who had seven children, and he composed some of his most notable pieces in the following seven years. After passing away at the age of 35, Mozart's legacy lived on, inspiring many individuals across the world.

What?

The composition question involved determining why a particular piece was written and what factors influenced its creation. In the case of Mozart's work, there were many external factors such as the aesthetic and historical reasons that motivated his compositions. Aesthetic, historical, and religious themes influenced Mozart's music, which were evident throughout his writings. Mozart's belief in God and Jesus Christ were significant aspects of his music, often expressed through profoundly spiritual themes. Despite the challenges of religious intolerance in his setting, Mozart continued to use music as a means of expressing his beliefs.

When?

For the "when" question, the era when the composition was written was the focus. The Rondo Alla Turca was composed in the 18th century, a time when classical music was prevalent. The Rondo alla Turca is one of Mozart's most popular compositions and also one of his most challenging. It exemplifies the aesthetic of musical excellence and art that was prominent during the Renaissance in Italy and other parts of Europe at the time.

In conclusion, the experiential learning project was an enriching and informative experience in which the life, work, and context of Mozart's compositions were explored. Through this project, it was possible to gain a deeper understanding of the composer's motivations and the influences that impacted his art.

The following is a list of sources referenced in the study of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart:

1. Eisen, Cliff, and Stanley Sadie. "Mozart, (Johann Chrysostom) Wolfgang Amadeus." Grove Music Online. 2001. Accessed on November 20th, 2022, from https://www.oxfordmusiconline.com/grovemusic/view/10.1093/gmo/9781561592630.001.0001/omo-9781561592630-e-6002278233. This online resource covers Mozart's life and music in great detail, and includes a comprehensive bibliography of all major publications on Mozart.

2. Demaray, Donald E. "Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart: A Man Through Whom God Sings." The Asbury Journal 37, no. 2 (1982): 4. This article explores Mozart's relationship with religion and spirituality, and how it influenced his music.

3. Tang, Zheng. "Music analysis: Alla Turca." This online resource analyzes Mozart's popular piano piece, "Alla Turca," which was inspired by Turkish military music.

4. Additional sources on Mozart's life and music can be found in the bibliography provided by Grove Music Online.

5. It is important to consult a variety of sources when conducting research on historical figures like Mozart in order to gain a comprehensive understanding of their life, work, and influence.

6. As new research is conducted and published on Mozart, it is important to stay up-to-date and continue learning about this important musical figure.