Mozart was eight when he wrote his first symphony – this was most probably transcribed by Leopold.
His father was himself a musician; he was appointed fourth violinist in the musical establishment of the ruling Prince-Archbishop of Salzburg (Salzburg being Mozart’s birthplace). Leopold was also a minor composer and had a lot of teaching experience. When Mozart began composing short pieces of music at the age of four or five, he would play them to his father who would write them down. Mozart was eight when he wrote his first symphony – this was most probably transcribed by Leopold. To begin with, Mozart’s father was his only teacher – not only did he teach him music, but also academic subjects and languages. Once Mozart’s talents became clear, Leopold decided to give up composing.