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Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart's Requiem in D minor, K.626, is one of his most famous and enigmatic compositions, surrounded by numerous fascinating facts and legends. Here are some interesting facts about this iconic work:

1. Commissioned by an Anonymous Patron: The Requiem was commissioned by an anonymous patron who turned out to be Count Franz von Walsegg. He intended to pass off the work as his own, in memory of his deceased wife.

2. Mozart's Illness: Mozart began working on the Requiem in 1791, but his health was rapidly deteriorating. He was suffering from various ailments, which fueled the legend that he believed he was writing the Requiem for his own death.

3. Mysterious Circumstances: Mozart died before completing the Requiem. He left behind only the first eight bars of the Lacrimosa. The rest of the work was mostly finished by Franz Xaver Süssmayr, a composer and student of Mozart's.

4. Multiple Versions: Süssmayr's completion has been the most performed version, but over the years, many composers and musicologists have attempted to finish the Requiem, leading to various alternative versions.

5. Unfinished Manuscript: The manuscript for the Requiem is shrouded in mystery. After Mozart's death, it was delivered to Constanze Mozart (his wife), who tried to secure payment from Count Walsegg. The manuscript is incomplete, and some pages are missing.

6. Constanze's Financial Motive: Constanze, struggling financially after her husband's death, may have encouraged Süssmayr to complete the Requiem quickly, as she hoped to receive the promised fee from Count Walsegg.

7. Musical Symbolism: Mozart's Requiem has been analyzed for its potential musical symbolism related to his impending death. Some theorists suggest that the composition reflects Mozart's inner turmoil and acceptance of his fate.

8. Modern Performances: The Requiem has been performed and recorded countless times over the years. It has become a staple of classical choral repertoire and is often performed at memorial services and in concert halls worldwide.

9. Cultural Impact: The Requiem's dramatic and emotional music has been featured in numerous films, TV shows, and other forms of popular culture, adding to its enduring legacy.

10. Mystery and Myths: The story of Mozart's Requiem has given rise to many myths and legends. Some suggest that composing the Requiem hastened Mozart's death, while others believe it was cursed.

11. Multiple Versions: Besides Süssmayr's completion, other composers, such as Franz Beyer, Franz Danzi, and Robert Levin, have created their versions of the Requiem, providing different perspectives on how Mozart might have intended to finish it.

12. Choral and Orchestral Innovation: Mozart's Requiem is known for its rich choral and orchestral writing, showcasing his mastery of both forms. The work is particularly celebrated for its expressive and poignant vocal passages.

Mozart's Requiem remains a source of fascination and intrigue, not only for its beautiful music but also for the historical and artistic mysteries that surround its creation and completion.