Steffan fled to Vienna in 1741 due to the Prussian invasion of Bohemia and continued his musical studies there.
Instruments
The fortepiano used for this recording was built in 1800 by the Geschwister Stein (Stein Siblings) in Vienna, a workshop run by Anna Maria (Nannette) and Matthäus Andreas (André) Stein.
Composer Biography
Joseph Anton Steffan suffered from an eye complaint, likely cataracts, in 1775, which nearly blinded him and forced him to leave his court position, though he continued to compose.
Critical Reception
An announcement in the Realzeitung in 1771 praised Steffan's renown, stating it was unnecessary to provide evidence of his skill as a master of theoretical and practical musical art.
Composer Biography
Joseph Anton Steffan, born in 1726, was the son of a schoolmaster and church organist in the Bohemian city of Kopidlno.
Composer Biography
In 1766, Joseph Anton Steffan became the first Bohemian to be employed at the Imperial court as Musikmeister to Maria Theresa's children.
Compositional Technique
Steffan's piano style is characterized by a personal playing method combining diverse stylistic elements, a preference for full and energetic chords, and often a bold, improvisatory bravura.
