Die Kölner Akademie is a unique ensemble based in Cologne that performs music from the 17th to 21st centuries on both period and modern instruments, with its own choir and guest soloists.
Recording & Production
The violin used by Alexander Janiczek, the leader, is a Giuseppe Guarneri del Gesù from 1731, on loan from the Österreichische Nationalbank.
Compositional Technique
Mozart's 'Musical Joke' (Ein musikalischer Spaß), K 522, is a parody of musical incompetence, featuring elements like unbalanced phrases, inappropriate textures, and faulty orchestration.
Historical Context
Serenades, a type of ensemble music, were typically performed outdoors in the evening and often honored civic figures or aristocracy.
Compositional Technique
Mozart's serenades, including the 'Haffner' Serenade, often incorporate soloistic, concerto-like movements, typically for the violin.
Composition History
Mozart composed the 'Haffner' Serenade, K 250, and the March, K 249, for the wedding of Maria Elisabeth Haffner, sister of Sigmund Haffner, a prominent Salzburg family member.
Historical Context
Musical dice games, which used dice throws to determine musical material, were popular when Mozart composed 'Ein musikalischer Spaß', but Mozart's piece shows what happens when the rules are ignored.
