Despite being a highly esteemed composer and interpreter during his lifetime, Sterkel, like many of his colleagues, fell into oblivion after his death.
Composition History
Sterkel's eight symphonies were performed 52 times at the Concert Spirituel in Paris between 1777 and 1782, making him the most frequently played composer there during that period.
Composer Biography
Johann Franz Xaver Sterkel, the composer, was initially discouraged from pursuing music by his stepfather, who reacted to his musical activities by beating him.
Cultural Impact
Sterkel's reputation was such that Muzio Clementi 'imitated' him in his Preludio alla Sterkel, and Ludwig van Beethoven composed variations on one of Sterkel's themes.
Composer's Artistic Vision
Sterkel aimed for 'noble simplicity and a pure rhythm of composition,' striving to avoid 'unworthy affectation' and 'bombast and confusion' in his music.
Historical Context
Ludwig van Beethoven met Sterkel in 1791 and was challenged to play his own Righini Variations, which he performed perfectly and in Sterkel's pleasing manner.
Composer Biography
Sterkel, a priest, was appointed Hofklaviermeister (court piano master) and vicar for Elector Friedrich Karl Joseph Reichsfreiherr von Erthal in Mainz.
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