Now Hear This Season 2 Episode 3 Becoming Mozart

Now Hear This is a TV show that takes viewers on a musical journey through history with renowned violinist and conductor Scott Yoo. In season 2, episode 3 titled "Becoming Mozart," viewers are transported back to the 18th century to explore the musical influences and life experiences that shaped one of the greatest composers of all time, Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart.

The episode begins with Scott Yoo in Salzburg, Austria, where Mozart was born and raised. Yoo visits Mozart's childhood home and the church where he was baptized, setting the tone for an exploration of Mozart's early years and the influences that would shape his musical style.

Viewers are then taken to Italy, where Mozart spent several formative years studying and performing. Yoo visits the cities of Bologna, Milan, and Rome, tracing Mozart's footsteps and exploring the music scene that was so important to his development. Along the way, Yoo meets with scholars and musicians to gain insights into the musical techniques and traditions that Mozart was exposed to in Italy.

The episode also explores Mozart's personal life, including his relationship with his father Leopold, who was both his teacher and promoter, and his relationships with various patrons and fellow musicians. Viewers are given a glimpse into Mozart's personal struggles and the challenges he faced as a young musician trying to establish himself in a competitive and often ruthless industry.

Throughout the episode, Yoo provides expert analysis and interpretation of Mozart's music, giving viewers a deeper understanding of the composer's genius and the historical context in which his music was created. He also performs several pieces of Mozart's music himself, demonstrating the technical and artistic demands of the composer's work.

Overall, "Becoming Mozart" is a fascinating and engaging exploration of one of the most iconic figures in classical music. With its combination of historical research, musical analysis, and Yoo's own performances, the episode offers a rich and multifaceted portrait of the man and his music. Whether you are a lifelong fan of Mozart or simply interested in learning more about classical music and its history, this episode is sure to captivate and inform.