K (composer)

In the context of classical music, "K" is commonly used as an abbreviation for the Köchel catalogue, a comprehensive and chronological catalogue of the compositions of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart. The catalogue was compiled by Ludwig Ritter von Köchel and published in 1862. Each work by Mozart is assigned a "K" number (e.g., Symphony No. 40 in G minor, K. 550) which serves as a standard identifier. Subsequent editions of the Köchel catalogue have updated and revised the numbering, leading to notations like "K⁶" or "K. 626" to denote the sixth edition and a specific composition respectively (e.g., Mozart's Requiem, K. 626). The Köchel catalogue is an essential tool for musicologists, performers, and enthusiasts studying Mozart's works.