Tuesday, December 6, 2022

CDLXI. MOZART, Wolfgang Amadeus: Divertimento #3 in E-Flat Major, K. 166

CDLXI. MOZART, Wolfgang Amadeus (1756-1791)

Divertimento #3 in E-Flat Major, K. 166 (1773)
1. Allegro
2. Menuetto
3. Andante grazioso
4. Adagio
5. Allegro
Central Michigan University Symphonic Wind Ensemble
John E. Williamson, cond.
(14:07)


Possibly a commission from Grand Duke Leopold of Tuscany (later Emperor Leopold II).

First Movement

Lovely English horn line in thirds, leading to a secondary dominant modulation (V of V) ...





































Second movement

A lovely minuet, with a true trio (3 instruments):





































Third movement

It is said that Mozart could instantly memorize any music he heard. On January 30, 1773, he heard an opera by Paisiello (Sismano nel Mogol), and appropriated the overture nearly verbatim for use here. This was a fairly common practice in the 18th century, and Mozart certainly did some careful re-orchestrating for this particular ensemble.

The melody is given in oboe and English horn in unison, creating a thicker texture than if he had just given it to the oboe alone:












He later gives the Horns the melody:


Fourth and Fifth movement

A short Adagio is followed by a vigorous Allegro, in which all the players get a chance to shine:









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