Dive Deep into the Musical Realm with Johann Joachim Quantz's Flute Concertos
Immerse yourself in the melodious world of Johann Joachim Quantz (1697–1773), an eminent Baroque era musician known for his extraordinary prowess in creating enchanting flute concertos. This versatile artist was not just a lauded flutist, but also a renowned composer and flute maker. His works have touched hearts and inspired many throughout history, ingraining him as an indispensable figure in the realm of classic Baroque music.
Quantz is particularly noted for his significant influence at the court of Frederick the Great, where he served as the king’s flute teacher, chamber musician, composer, and instrument maker from 1741 until his death in 1773. He was a prolific composer, writing more than 200 sonatas and around 300 concertos, including several for other solo instruments, and is also celebrated for his treatise On Playing the Flute (Versuch einer Anweisung die Flöte traversiere zu spielen, 1752), which became an authoritative guide on 18th-century flute technique and performance practice.
Quantz's Musical Style and Innovations
Quantz's music is firmly rooted in the Empfindsamer Stil (sensitive style), a transition between the Baroque and Classical periods that emphasized expressive, nuanced, and melodically rich compositions. After gaining a post as an oboist in the Dresden court ensemble, he began to specialize in the flute around 1719. He made several key innovations in flute construction, such as adding a second key to improve intonation. Frederick the Great himself owned multiple flutes crafted by Quantz.
Highlights: Flute Concertos and Performance
Quantz’s flute concertos are some of the finest examples of his craftsmanship and were composed primarily for Frederick the Great. These concertos are characterized by their lyrical slow movements, virtuosic passages, and inventive orchestration, representing the height of 18th-century flute literature.
In collaboration with the incredibly talented Daniel Hope, Daniela Koch, Stephan Schultz, Raphael Alpermann, Werner Ehrhardt, and L'arte Del Mondo, this collection of 5 Flute Concertos is a mesmerizing journey through Quantz's artistic brilliance. Each piece is carefully crafted to highlight the unique tonal quality of the flute, bringing to life the Baroque era's distinguished charm.
Explore the musical genius of Friedrich der Große’s court flutist and experience an impactful performance from Sanssouci, a name synonymous for its rich musical history. Experience Quantz's breathtaking compositions come alive in this unforgettable musical endeavor.
Adding to this captivating sonic experience, Rachel Brown along with The Brandenburg Consort led by Roy Goodman envelope listeners in a sublime auditory delights that capture the soul and beauty of Quantz's creations. Be part of this musical journey and surrender to the harmonious blend of historical narratives and melodic richness that lies at the heart of Quantz's 5 Flute Concertos.