Conducted by Ton Koopman, the Amsterdam Baroque Orchestra performs Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart’s Symphony No. 18 in G major, K. 130. This performance was recorded at the Tokyo Metropolitan Theatre on June 5, 1991.

Conducted by Ton Koopman, the Amsterdam Baroque Orchestra performs Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart’s Symphony No. 18 in G major, K. 130. This performance was recorded at the Tokyo Metropolitan Theatre on June 5, 1991.

Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart’s Symphony No. 18

Mozart’s Symphony No. 18 in F major, K. 130, composed in 1772, when the composer was only 16 years old, showcases the young composer’s growing mastery and confidence in symphonic writing. This work, from his Salzburg period, is characterized by its elegant melodies and the clarity of its classical form. Here’s a brief look at each of its movements:

  1. Allegro: The opening movement is lively and full of youthful energy. It features a spirited theme that Mozart develops with grace and sophistication. The use of dynamic contrasts and a clear, sonata-allegro form exemplifies Mozart’s early command of classical style.
  2. Andantino grazioso: This movement is a serene andante with a graceful, flowing melody that embodies the elegance of the 18th-century style. The Andantino grazioso offers a moment of calm, showcasing Mozart’s ability to create profound beauty through simplicity.
  3. Menuetto & Trio: True to the dance form from which it takes its name, the third movement is a minuet that combines stately rhythm with a playful character. The trio section provides a contrasting mood, lighter and more lyrical, before returning to the minuet’s initial theme.
  4. Molto allegro: The final movement is brisk and vivacious, bringing the symphony to a joyful and energetic conclusion. This movement exemplifies Mozart’s skill in weaving complex counterpoint within a fast-paced and exuberant framework, ending the symphony on a high note.

Each movement of Symphony No. 18 reflects a different aspect of Mozart’s early symphonic style, from the lively and complex allegros to the graceful andantino and the spirited minuet. Together, they form a cohesive work that highlights the composer’s burgeoning genius and his place within the classical tradition.

The symphony has the scoring of two flutes, four horns, and strings. There are no oboes in this symphony, they were replaced by flutes for the first time. Mozart also used a second pair of horns in the first and second movements, which is a rarity in his oeuvre.

Sources

M. Özgür Nevres

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