Johann Graf and Georg Philipp Telemann, a prominent German Baroque composer, maintained a friendly and collegial relationship, with Telemann even engraving Graf's Op. 3 sonatas.
Composer Biography
Before his appointment at Schwarzburg-Rudolstadt, Johann Graf served for six years in Hungary as an instructor and master oboist with the Loeffelholtz Regiment.
Composer's Artistic Vision
Johann Graf's sonatas are dedicated to aristocratic music lovers, expressing his agreement with the Italian style over the French, a highly debated musical question of his time.
Compositional Technique
As a composer, Johann Graf represents the Italian style, with his sonatas generally following the slow-fast-slow-fast movement sequence, though he often deviates from this structure.
Composer Biography
Johann Graf, the composer, entered the service of the court of Schwarzburg-Rudolstadt in 1722, where he quickly became a favorite.
Compositional Technique
The Op. 1 sonatas by Johann Graf feature 'incompletely written' slow movements, requiring the performer to add their own embellishments and improvisations.
Recording & Production
This album was recorded in the Weinbergkirche Dresden/Pillnitz, Germany, a location chosen for its peaceful setting away from city noise and its proximity to Pillnitz Castle, which served as an inspiration for court music.
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