Mozart composed his Oboe Quartet in F major, K. 370, for Friedrich Ramm, a first oboist in the Mannheim court orchestra, as an acknowledgement of Ramm's mastery.
Instruments
The clarinet known to Mozart had only five keys, requiring great dexterity to play certain note connections, and its tone was considered akin to the singing voice.
Interpretation
François Benda, the performer on this recording, plays a Resonance basset clarinet he designed himself, reflecting a deep interest in instrument making, similar to Anton Stadler, for whom Mozart composed the Clarinet Quintet.
Composer's Artistic Vision
Mozart's initial aversion to the flute was less about the instrument itself and more about the amateurish way it was often played, as tuning 18th-century woodwind instruments was challenging.
Historical Context
Mozart, in his early twenties, struggled financially in Salzburg, where he was exploited, receiving only a trainee's salary despite excelling as concertmaster for the archbishop's orchestra.
Recording & Production
This album is part of the "Artist Consort" series, which aims to prioritize artistic ethos and the decisions of top performing artists in classical music production, rather than market demands.
Composer Biography
Mozart was greatly impressed by the Mannheim court orchestra, which was pioneering in its use of woodwinds, including the clarinet as early as 1759, a revelation for him.
