January 7th: A Million Kisses to You — A Young Mozart’s Letter to His Sister

    In 1770, a 13-year-old boy was traveling through Italy with his father. While the world would soon know him as a musical genius, to his older sister Maria Anna (Nannerl), he was simply a playful, witty, and deeply affectionate younger brother.

On this day, January 7th, 1770, Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart penned a letter from Milan that reveals the charming personality behind the legend.

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"My Dearest Sister,"

An opera performance is in full swing here in Milan. But oh, sister, you wouldn't believe how ridiculous the lead soprano is! Her voice is so piercingly high it’s almost painful, and her acting is so awkward! Father clicks his tongue in disapproval, but I can hardly contain my laughter.

Sister, how is your Italian coming along? When I return, we must certainly converse in Italian together. The people here gesture with their hands at every word—it is quite amusing to watch.

Where we shall head tomorrow is not yet decided. But wherever I may be, I will be thinking of you.

Sending a million kisses to your hands.

Your eternal brother, - Wolfgang

    Milan, January 7th, 1770

"Maria Anna 'Nannerl' Mozart (1751–1829), Wolfgang’s elder sister and a gifted musician in her own right. She remained her brother's closest confidante during their youth."