Groneman: Rococo Flute Music

Groneman, Johannes Albertus, Groneman, Johannes Fredericus

Bussi, Marcelo, Máté, Balázs, Moonen, Marion, Wentz, Jed

97002

Johannes Albertus Groneman (baptized 1711-1778) and his brother Johannes Fredericus were born in Hamm (Germany) into a musical family. They enjoyed an education typical of musician’s sons in the 18th century, learning from their father the trade, playing several instruments and instructed in composition, harmony and singing. Through his teacher Carl Rosier Albertus was introduced in the Netherlands, where he settled in Utrecht in 1729, later moving to Leiden. It is during this Leiden period that most of Groneman’s music which survived, and indeed probably all of the music of this recording, was composed. Upon his arrival in the famous university town, Groneman was able to establish himself with ease in the highest social circles, enjoying the friendship and patronage of patricians and professors, while wealthy merchants and musicians of international repute became godparents to his children. He bought a Stradivarius violin and an especially beautiful harpsichord made by famous Flemish harpsichord maker Ruckers. He published virtuoso music for violin and flute which proved popular enough to be published and republished in London and Paris.

The Flute Sonatas consist of three movements, brilliant allegros framing a melancholy and moving andante full of bold harmonies. The style is gracious and sweetly-singing, displaying the full range of the flute’s brilliant possibilities.

Performed by Jed Wentz (flute), a pioneer in the performance practice of notably French Baroque music for his instrument. His many recordings for Brilliant Classics (J.S. Bach and C.P.E. Bach, Blavet, Couperin, Boismortier, Braun, Roman) have established him as one of the foremost interpreters in this field.

Recorded in 1994, a reissue from the NM Classics catalogue, the label for music from the Netherlands.

Works:

•Johannes Fredericus Groneman: Sonata in D Major: I. Allegro
•Johannes Fredericus Groneman: Sonata in D Major: II. Andante
•Johannes Fredericus Groneman: Sonata in D Major: III. Menuetto con variazioni
•Johannes Albertus Groneman: Sonata in G Major: I. Allegro

CD x 1

Brilliant Classics

2.09.2024

5028421970028