Mozart created a new relationship between the piano and stringed instruments in his trios, giving the violin and cello independent roles, a development that Beethoven later built upon.
Composition History
Unlike earlier works of its type, almost all of Mozart's piano trios were written for his own concerts in Vienna, with him playing the piano, and the parts tailored to his exceptional skills.
Historical Context
By 1788, Mozart's fortunes had worsened due to the Austro-Turkish war, which burdened Viennese society with taxes and rising prices, reducing noble support for the arts.
Composer Biography
Despite personal and financial difficulties in 1788, including his wife's illness and the death of his infant daughter, Mozart composed some of his greatest music, including his last three symphonies and two piano trios.
Performer Biography
The Florestan Trio, one of the world's leading piano trios, received Britain's Royal Philharmonic Society Award for chamber music in 2000, the first time it was given to a piano trio.
Composer Biography
Mozart, along with Joseph Haydn, were the two greatest composers of the late 18th century, sharing immense mutual respect and a close friendship that influenced their music.
Historical Context
In late 18th-century Vienna, there was a large market for 'Piano Trios', then called 'Sonatas for harpsichord or fortepiano, with the accompaniment of a violin and violoncello', played by amateurs at home.
You might also enjoy...
Haydn: Piano Trios Nos. 28-31
Pleyel: Piano Trios in E Minor / G Major / D Major
Haydn: Piano Trios
Mozart: Piano Trios, Vol. 2
Mozart: Piano Trios, KV 502, 542 & 564
Mozart, W.A.: Piano Trios Nos. 3-5
Haydn: Piano Trio No. 39
Mozart : Piano Trios & Divertimento
Mozart: Piano Trios, Vol. 1
Joseph Haydn: Piano Trios
Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart: Piano Trios No. 1, K. 254 (Divertimento), No. 3, K. 502 & No. 6, K. 564
