Quantz, JJ :: 6 Sonatas op. 1: Volume 1

Six Sonatas op. 1, Vol. 1, Sonatas 1-3 are composed by Johann Joachim Quantz and edited by Hugo Ruf. This edition contains an optional part for cello, or other basso instrument.

Johann Joachim Quantz (b. 1697 in Oberscheden nr. Gottingen, d. 1773 in Potsdam) is known by flautists and others as a prolific composer, as a teacher and musical advisor of Frederick the Great, as an improver of the one-keyed flute, but above all as the author of a treatise of great importance, published under the title: 'Versuch einer Anweisung die Flote traversiere zu spielen. The 'Versuch', published in 1752 - like C.P.E. Bach's 'Versuch uber die wahre Art das Clavier zu spielen' of 1753 and Leopold Mozart's 'Versuch einer grundlichen Violinschule' of 1756 - is an influential document of musical practice of the times and of musical opinion during the 18th century. In this work, Quantz set forth his rich experiences in education, performance, composition, and aesthetics. Journeys to Italy, France, and England as well as personal contact with influential musicians of this time made Quantz a first rate authroity on the most diverse musical styles. His experiences in this respect and his profound knowledge of the German tradition, led him to advocate emphatically in his work the so-called 'mixed taste', regarding which he stated the following in the 18th main section of his 'Versuch': 'If one knows how to select the best from the musical taste of different peoples with proper judgment, this will result in a mixed taste, which could very well be called the German taste without going beyond the bounds of modestly; not because the Germans first came across this but also because it was established some years ago in various places in Germany and still flourishes and does not displease in Italy, France, or other countries'. Quantz became well-known as a composer principally with works for his own instrument. More than three hundred flute concertos are known and an even greater number of chamber works of smaller proportions (quartets, trios, duos, and solo sonatas with basso continuo).

- Hugo Ruf

Contents

• Sonata No. 1 in A minor
• Sonata no. 2 in B flat major
• Sonata no. 3 in C minor