Music For a King

Ensemble Florilegium

Frederick the Great himself is known to have composed one hundred and twenty-one flute sonatas, four flute concertos, a symphony, various arias and an overture. These works were written in the mixed style advocated by Quantz in an attempt to blend Italian music of the senses with French music of reason.

The king’s love of music was real and genuine, and he desired and ensured that others should enjoy it in the same way. As a performer he was probably one of the most distinguished amateurs ever. As a composer he wrote nothing eminent or really original, though some pieces exuded a certain beauty and charm. However, this recording promotes the extraordinary talent of the musicians and composers he surrounded himself with at court, the luminaries of the 18th century, all brought together by one of the greatest musical patrons that ever lived.

Vergeten meesterwerken, bijeengebracht door één van de grootste muzikale weldoeners ooit: Frederik de Grote

Bach, C P E:
 Trio in G major for flute, violin and basso continuo, H574 (Wq 150)

Bach, J S:
 Musical Offering, BWV1079: Ricercar a 3

Benda, Franz:
 Violin Sonata in E major

Fasch, C F C:
 Piece for solo clavichord, Op. 17

Graun, C H:
 Sonata for violoncello and basso continuo in C

Graun, J G:
 Quintet in A Minor, GraunWV Av:XIV:14

Muthel:
 Flute Sonata in D major

Quantz:
 Trio Sonata in E minor