Robert Aitken, the flutist on this album, studied with eminent flautists including Marcel Moyse, Jean-Pierre Rampal, and Severino Gazzelloni, and has received awards such as the Order of Canada and the Chevalier de l'Ordre des Arts et des Lettres.
Composer's Artistic Vision
Johann Stamitz's principal achievement was his contribution to the developing form of the symphony, but he also composed numerous concertos, including fourteen for flute.
Compositional Technique
The Mannheim orchestra, established by Johann Stamitz, was widely known for its disciplined crescendo and diminuendo, and its fine command of nuanced dynamics.
Historical Context
The Mannheim Court, where Johann Stamitz worked, was famous for its musical prowess, with an orchestra described by English music historian Dr. Charles Burney as 'an army of generals'.
Composer Biography
Johann Stamitz, a violinist, composer, and music director, was employed at the Electoral Court in Mannheim around 1741 and became director of instrumental music in 1750.
Performer Biography
Donatas Katkus, the artistic director and conductor of the St Christopher Chamber Orchestra, founded the Vilnius String Quartet in 1965, which won first prize at the International Liège Competition.
Recording & Production
The St Christopher Chamber Orchestra, founded in 1994, is known for its wide range of musical styles, from baroque to contemporary, and its innovative projects including jazz and rock operas.
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