Throughout history, the world of classical music has been graced by the remarkable presence of child prodigies. Explore four renowned classical music child prodigies who have left a mark on the world of music.  

Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart (1756-1791) 

Mozart displayed extraordinary musical prowess from a young age. By the age of five, he had composed his first piece. By the time he was a teenager, he had already composed numerous symphonies, operas, and piano sonatas. His unmatched musical genius continues to inspire and attract musicians and music enthusiasts worldwide.  

Felix Mendelssohn (1809-1847)

Felix Mendelssohn was a child prodigy on the piano and violin, and his compositions were marked by their emotional depth and technical brilliance. His overture to “A Midsummer Night’s Dream” is a prime example of his extraordinary abilities. This piece was composed when he was only 17 years old. His contributions to the Romantic era of music remain celebrated to this day.  

Clara Wiek Schumann (1819-1896)

In a time when gender roles limited women’s opportunities, Clara Wieck Schumann emerged as a remarkable pianist and composer. Gifted with a rare musical intuition, Clara began performing public concerts at the age of nine and composed her first piano concerto at 14.  

Yehudi Menuhin (1916-1999)

Yehudi Menuhin, an American-born violinist, became one of the most acclimated and influential musicians of his time. At the age of seven, Menuhin performed with the San Francisco Symphony, capturing the world’s attention with his prodigious talent. Throughout his career, he demonstrated unparalleled mastery of the violin and collaborated with esteemed musicians.  

The stories of these four classical music prodigies continue to inspire generations of aspiring musicians and artists. Their innate abilities and dedication to their craft demonstrated that age is no barrier to greatness. Their legacy stands as a testament to the profound impact that young minds can have on the world of classical music. As we continue to celebrate and nurture talent, we can only wonder which young musicians of today will leave an enduring mark on the world in the future.

Fifteen-year-old violinist Amaryn Olmeda joins the Orchestra in February playing Barber's Violin Concerto. Don't miss this young talent during her Des Moines debut at Discover Groundbreaking Innovation.