Johann Adolph Scheibe (1708-1786), another composer on this album, was a prominent figure in Copenhagen's musical life and a music critic who criticized both Bach and Italian opera.
Historical Context
The composers on this album either lived in Denmark or their music was known and played there in the first half of the 18th century.
Composition History
Much of the oldest Danish Baroque music was lost due to fires at Christiansborg Castle in 1794, two city fires in Copenhagen in 1728 and 1795, and the English bombardment in 1807.
Historical Context
King Frederik IV (1671-1730) of Denmark, a music lover, raised the musical ambitions of the Danish court through his travels to Italy and France.
Composer Biography
Christoph Graupner (1683-1760), a composer featured on this album, was a candidate for the cantorate in Leipzig, a position that ultimately went to J.S. Bach.
Historical Context
The Danish court maintained a small orchestra, 'the Court Violins,' which was a precursor to the Royal Orchestra, and performed music by composers like Lully, Torelli, A. Scarlatti, and Corelli.
Instruments
Recorders were a central instrument group in Danish Baroque music, favored by composers, and music written for other instruments could also be played on the recorder.
