European composers incorporated Turkish elements into their music primarily through instrumentation, mimicking the loud wind and percussion instruments of the Ottoman Janissary bands (mehter).
Instruments
The album features period instruments, such as a cimbasso, which is an instrument with a trombone mouthpiece and a wooden bassoon-like body, widely used in 19th-century Italian opera.
Historical Context
The term "Harmonie" refers to wind ensembles that gained prominence in the 18th century, particularly after Emperor Joseph II founded the Königliche Kaiserliche Harmonie in Vienna in 1782.
Performer Biography
Giuseppe Donizetti, elder brother of Gaetano Donizetti, achieved great fame in Turkey as Instructor General of the Imperial Ottoman Music, composing the Ottoman Empire's national anthem.
Historical Context
Interest in "Turkerie," or all things Turkish, was a widespread fashion in 18th-century Europe, driven by improved diplomatic relations and commercial exchanges with the Ottoman Empire.
Recording & Production
The recording sessions for this album took place in the Gustav Mahler Hall at the Kulturzentrum Grand Hotel in Dobbiaco, from January 23-26, 2015.
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