Pez dedicated his collection of sonatas, Duplex Genius, to Elector Max Emanuel and received a significant payment of 700 guilders for it.
Composer Biography
Johann Christoph Pez, the composer, was born into a family of tower watchmen in Munich, a profession that traditionally involved providing music for the community.
Critical Reception
A handwritten copy of Pez's 12 sonatas by Christoph Graupner led to their erroneous attribution to Graupner and inclusion in his catalogue of works.
Compositional Technique
The Duplex Genius sonatas are characterized by a strong Italian style, featuring contrasting, effervescent, and sometimes abrupt alternations between fast and slow passages and movements.
Composer Biography
Pez's early musical education included theoretical foundations, violin, lute, and vocal training at the parish school in St. Peter's schoolhouse.
Compositional Technique
Pez's sonatas masterfully blend Italian stylistic elements with French influences, such as dotted rhythms and dance movements, to cater to changing contemporary tastes.
Performer Biography
L'arpa festante, the ensemble performing on this album, was founded in 1983 and is one of Germany's most time-honored early music ensembles.
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