The fortepiano used for this recording was made by Paul McNulty in Amsterdam in 1992, modeled after an instrument by Anton Gabriel Walter from around 1795.
Compositional Technique
Mozart's Sonata in A major, KV 331, includes an 'Alla turca' movement, influenced by the 'Janizary music' of Turkish infantry, characterized by sounds of piccolo, bass drum, cymbals, and triangle.
Interpretation
Ronald Brautigam, the performer on this recording, is a leading exponent of the fortepiano, an instrument that existed in Mozart's time, and has a particular interest in Mozart's music for it.
Composer Biography
Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart was a brilliant composer and an outstanding keyboard player, combining both roles throughout his career.
Composition History
Mozart's keyboard sonatas were often improvised, which explains why he might not have written them down for extended periods.
Composition History
The sonatas on this album (KV330-333), once believed to be 'Paris Sonatas' from 1778, were actually composed in 1783, five years later than previously assumed.
Critical Reception
Despite his creative power, Mozart's reputation declined in the final years of his life, with some critics finding his music too difficult for the public.
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