Carl Philipp Stamitz, a virtuoso violist and composer, tailored his solo parts to showcase his technical strengths and the unique tone colors of the viola.
Composer Biography
Franz Anton Hoffmeister, another composer on this album, initially went to Vienna to study law but was so captivated by the city's music that he devoted his life to it.
Historical Context
Concertos for the viola were rare in the 18th century, despite the viola being a standard orchestral instrument and part of the string quartet.
Composer Biography
Carl Philipp Stamitz's compositions were popular in his time, but he died heavily in debt, leading to his possessions being auctioned.
Historical Context
The Breitkopf Catalogue, an important guide to 18th-century music, listed barely a handful of viola concertos, contrasting with many works for other instruments.
Composer Biography
Carl Philipp Stamitz, a composer on this album, received his early musical training from his father Johann Stamitz, director of the celebrated Mannheim court orchestra.
Composer Biography
Franz Anton Hoffmeister is primarily known today as a music publisher, having established one of Vienna's first publishing houses in 1785.
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