Boccherini's Instrumental Works and Secrets - A Closer Look
In his orchestrations, Boccherini demonstrated particular mastery through the use of unusual wind instruments such as the oboe, flute, and horn in both his symphonies and chamber music pieces. For example, the flute appears in the trio of the minuet of his Symphony in B-flat major, Op. 11 No. 5, G. 275, from 1771—a tribute to the versatility of this instrument.[1][3] Boccherini's relationship with the flute reached its zenith in 1773 with the Divertimenti, Op. 16, which required a highly skilled performer. During this period, he composed numerous other pieces for flute.
Uncertainties arise regarding the precise dating of the Quintets, Op. 19. To impress publishers, opus numbers were frequently varied, which complicates the understanding of Boccherini's complete works. Although not all the mysteries have been solved, it is known that the quintets date from 1774.
Despite the designation "Opere piccole," Boccherini pursued a serious approach, which is particularly evident in the six quintets, Op. 19. These offer a multifaceted musical spectrum and give equal prominence to the flute and strings. Some quintets demand exceptional cello skills, as the cello was Boccherini's preferred instrument.[1]
The quintets follow a recognizable pattern in their movement sequence and style. The sixth quintet, entitled "Las Parejas," is particularly noteworthy, exhibiting an interesting structure with Spanish influences and a characteristic musical style. Indeed, Boccherini incorporated Spanish folk music into several works, such as the "Musica Notturna delle Strade di Madrid" or the fandango in the String Quintet, Op. 40 No. 2, G. 341.[1]
[1] Boccherini's musical legacy contains numerous stories and mysteries that continue to fascinate scholars and music lovers. Naturally, chamber music for string instruments was at the heart of his work, with an impressive 125 string quintets, 91 string quartets, and other works in his extensive catalogue.[2]