Flutist-composer Johann Joachim Quantz (1697–1773) wrote 500 pieces for the flute. He had a demanding patron: King Frederick the Great of Prussia, a major historical figure whose many talents included composing and playing the flute himself.
In two new CDs of never-before-recorded works by Quantz and King Frederick, Wagner music department chair David Schulenberg helps to bring this richly varied music back to life.
Johann Joachim Quantz: Seven Flute Sonatas and Seven Flute Sonatas by King Frederick “The Great” of Prussia showcase these composers' lively Baroque counterpoint and elegant, expressive melodies. Accompanying Mary Oleskiewicz on transverse flute, Schulenberg plays harpsichord and fortepiano, along with Stephanie Vial and Balázs Máté on cello.
King Frederick's sonatas were even recorded in the music room of his palace, Sanssouci in Potsdam, Germany, using recreations of his original instruments.
Schulenberg is an international authority on the music of the Bach family and a highly respected performer on early keyboard instruments. The CDs are available from here.
