Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart was born on this date of January 27, 1756.
In the 1630s, there was a song only played in the Sistine Chapel. The Vatican kept the composition of “Miserere Mei, Deus” secret for 150 years until 14-year-old Mozart listened to it 2 times, transcribed it from memory and produced the first unauthorized copy. This is one of the earliest records of musical piracy.
I don’t know about the historical accuracy of this one, but I do like the story so let’s go with it. Oh, and if you’re curious about the piece of music referenced –Miserere Mei, Deus– take a few minutes and give it a listen sung by the Tenebrae Choir.
Haunting.