Mozart, Wolfgang Amadeus – Quartet in F KV 370 (368b)

Description

Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart wrote the oboe quartet in F, K-number 370, early in 1771 for the oboist Friedrich Ramm. In an impressive manner, this composition gives expression to the intimacy inherent in Mozart´s chamber music: After the introduction of the theme by the soloist, the supporting voices join in taking an active part in the musical flow of the first movement and converting the oboe´s soliloqui into a dialogue. An expressive, marvellous theme dominates the second movement, the suspense of which does not ease until the composition proceeds to the concluding rondeau – a rondeau almost bursting with its exuberant joie de vivre. This composition certainly ranks with Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart´s best-known and most beautiful pieces of work. On the occasion of the Mozart Year 2006 I have ventured to write an arrangement for the saxophone quartet clair-obscur. To a large extent, I have retained the original key and octave positions; for the parts which include technical difficulties well-tried alternative ossia possibilities are available. Mozart’s oboe quartet is a real MUST and represents a great musical challenge to each saxophone quartet.