Fascinating Works by Johann Melchior Molter
Johann Melchior Molter (1696–1765) was a prolific German Baroque composer and violinist recognized for his innovative orchestral and instrumental music. Appointed Kapellmeister at multiple German courts, Molter contributed greatly to the transitional period from the late Baroque to the galant style, often incorporating imaginative instrumentation and new musical forms.
Molter began his career as Kapellmeister in Karlsruhe in 1722, later moving to the court of Duke Wilhelm Heinrich of Saxe-Eisenach, before eventually returning to Karlsruhe, where he continued composing and teaching until his death. He composed extensively during his lifetime, producing 172 symphonies, 73 concerti, 22 concertini, 12 concerti for orchestra, 14 overtures, 66 sonatas, 28 flute duets, 14 solo cantatas, and six violin sonatas. Molter was known for experimenting with new instruments, such as the clarinet and the chalumeau, making him one of the first composers to write solo concertos for these instruments.
Molter's Music and Innovations
Molter’s music bridges the stylistic gap between Baroque and Classical, blending French and Italian influences with German traditions. His orchestral writing often features imaginative use of timbre and new instrumental colors. His surviving works include an oratorio and several cantatas, over 140 orchestral works, including symphonies and overtures, more than 40 solo concertos, featuring some of the earliest clarinet concertos ever written, 21 or 22 orchestral sonatas, a genre that Molter made distinctive, and over 100 chamber works.
Molter's Legacy and Relevance
Molter’s trumpet concertos are particularly well-known, with one becoming the signature piece for C-SPAN’s “Washington Journal”. His instrumental music is celebrated for its vitality and inventive scoring, and modern performances have brought renewed attention to his clarinet concertos.
Molter's Music on STAGE+
Immerse yourself in the fascinating works of Johann Melchior Molter brought to you by STAGE+. Discover the intricate beauty of his compositions as interpreted by world-renowned artists such as Daniel Hope and the incredible Trevor Pinnock with The English Concert.
Experience the joy and merriment of Molter's "Christmas Concertos" in the hands of the brilliant Daniel Hope. This collection of concertos captures the spirit of Christmas in a way only Molter could, creating a heartwarming and festive auditory experience.
Let Trevor Pinnock and The English Concert transport you back in time with their spellbinding performance of Molter's extraordinary music. Their depth of understanding, sensational artistry, and immense skill bring Molter's compositions to life, allowing listeners to not only hear but truly feel the music.
Dive into the world of Johann Melchior Molter with STAGE+ and let his stunning compositions echo through the halls of your imagination, moving you in ways only true artistry can.