The Six Sonatas and two Octets were recorded on a copy of an Anton Walter fortepiano made by Paul McNulty, chosen to best represent the dynamic changes and sonorities of Mysliveček's style.
Composer's Artistic Vision
Mysliveček's style aimed for elegance and balance, adapting contemporary idioms to achieve a wide range of stylistic and musical elements rather than dramatic twists or anachronistic visions.
Composer Biography
Josef Mysliveček, known as 'il divino boemo' or 'Venatorini' ('little huntsman'), enjoyed considerable fame during his lifetime and was a friend of Mozart, who esteemed him.
Instruments
The Six Divertimenti were recorded on an original fortepiano built in Venice in the late 18th century, reflecting Mysliveček's stay in the city and operatic influences.
Recording & Production
This recording is intended to be the first on historical instruments to include the Octets, which are offered as world premieres, to reveal the stature of Mysliveček.
Interpretation
The performances on this album introduce variations and add improvised cadenzas, reflecting the 18th-century practice where performers had a duty to embellish and vary repetitions.
Historical Context
Mysliveček became the first internationally renowned Bohemian opera composer, representing the Italian and specifically Neapolitan style.
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