Doesn’t he look dignified? The Mozart Bust in Prospect Park is a testament to the enduring power of music and the generosity of Brooklyn’s German singing community. Cast in bronze and standing proudly in Concert Grove, the bust has witnessed over a century of history.
The Mozart Bust was created by German-American sculptor Augustus Max Johannes Mueller in 1897. It was awarded to the United German Singers of Brooklyn, who had triumphed at the 18th annual National Saengerfest, a prestigious choral competition held in Philadelphia.
Instead of keeping their hard-won prize, the singers decided to donate the Mozart Bust to the City of Brooklyn. A dedication ceremony was held in Concert Grove on October 23, 1897. This act of generosity speaks volumes about the community spirit that thrived in Brooklyn at the time.
This wasn’t the United German Singers’ first act of cultural philanthropy. They had previously won busts of Beethoven in 1894 and Carl Maria von Weber in 1909, both of which grace Concert Grove alongside Mozart. These busts reveal a fascinating glimpse into the cultural landscape of 19th-century Brooklyn. They highlight the prominent role that German immigrants played in shaping the borough’s artistic heritage.
As you stand before the Mozart Bust, take a moment to appreciate its craftsmanship. Notice the intricate details of Mozart’s face, capturing his genius and passion. The bust stands as a tribute not only to Mozart himself but also to the power of music to unite communities and transcend cultural boundaries.