The term ‘child prodigy’ – or ‘Wunderkind’ in German – is nowadays regarded as “ideologically charged” (Hans Günther Bastian). Although the naive celebration of gifted children has increasingly been criticised, the phenomenon of extraordinary talents is still worth examining. The planned symposium will focus on musical prodigies: the historical origins and ongoing narratives of the phenomenon will be discussed, as well as specific case studies.
Erich Wolfgang Korngold (1897–1957), who was presented as a musical ‘child prodigy’ during his lifetime, serves as a prominent example. The quoted motto from the autograph title page of a collection of songs by the then fourteen-year-old – “So Gott und Papa will op. 5” (If it is God’s and Father’s will, op. 5) – illustrates the often problematic role of family influence. The discussion will focus on early works by young composers, while also taking a critical look at musical virtuosity and its medial reception.
Please send your abstract (maximum 300 words) by 1 June 2026 to tagung-rostockkorngold-werkausgabede.
The conference languages are German and English. A Publication of the conference proceedings is planned. For further information, please contact
tagung-rostockkorngold-werkausgabede.
