Starling for Mozart

On May 27th, 1784, Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, the renowned composer, encountered a flirtatious little starling in a Viennese shop. The starling sang an improvised version of the theme from his Piano Concerto no. 17 in G major, captivating Mozart's attention. Sensing a kindred spirit in the plucky young bird, Mozart decided to purchase it and take it home to be a family pet. For the next three years, the starling lived with Mozart, influencing his work and serving as his companion, distraction, consolation, and muse.

Two centuries later, starlings have become reviled by even the most compassionate conservationists. As a nonnative, invasive species, they have invaded sensitive habitats, outcompeted local birds for nest sites and food, and decimated crops. Lyanda Lynn Haupt, a seasoned birder and naturalist, is well versed in the difficult and often strained relationships these birds have with other species and the environment. However, after rescuing a baby starling of her own, Haupt found herself enchanted by the same intelligence and playful spirit that had so charmed her favorite composer, Mozart.

In her book, "Mozart's Starling," Haupt explores the unlikely and remarkable bond between one of history's most cherished composers and one of earth's most common birds. The intertwined stories of Mozart's beloved pet and Haupt's own starling provide an unexpected window into human-animal friendships, music, the secret world of starlings, and the nature of creative inspiration. Blending natural history, biography, and memoir, "Mozart's Starling" is a tour de force that awakens a surprising new awareness of our place in the world.

The story begins with Mozart's chance encounter with the starling, a moment that would ultimately shape the composer's life and work. Haupt skillfully weaves together historical accounts and personal anecdotes to create a captivating narrative that delves into the depths of the human-animal bond. Through her own experiences with the rescue starling, Haupt offers a unique perspective on the intelligence, personality, and adaptability of these often-maligned birds.

As the tale unfolds, readers are transported to the vibrant and bustling world of 18th-century Vienna, where Mozart's starling was a beloved member of his household. Haupt's meticulous research and vivid descriptions bring this historical setting to life, allowing readers to imagine the composer's daily interactions with his feathered companion.

Moreover, the book explores the profound influence the starling had on Mozart's creative process. Haupt examines how the bird's improvised rendition of the Piano Concerto theme inspired the composer and how the starling's presence in his life served as a source of inspiration, comfort, and distraction.

Beyond the individual stories, "Mozart's Starling" delves into the broader implications of human-animal relationships and the complex role that invasive species play in our ecosystems. Haupt's thoughtful exploration of these themes encourages readers to consider their own perceptions of the natural world and the interconnectedness of all living beings.

Ultimately, "Mozart's Starling" is a captivating and multifaceted work that celebrates the unexpected and often overlooked connections between humans and the natural world. Haupt's lyrical prose and her ability to weave together diverse strands of history, science, and personal experience make this book a compelling read for anyone interested in the intersections of music, nature, and the human experience.

product information: