Search - David Moritz Michael, Pacific Classical Winds :: David Moritz Michael: Parthien 10-14

The fourth and final volume of Moravian composer David Moritz Michael?s wind music offers Parthien 10 through 14. Brimming with grace and wit, they epitomize the sophistication of Moravian musical culture in eighteenth-century America. David Moritz Michael (1751?1827) wrote fourteen Parthien for combinations of clarinets, horns, and bassoons (with the occasional flute or trumpet). These works, in the tradition of the divertimento or serenade of the eighteenth century, were performed at concerts in Bethlehem and Nazareth, Pennsylvania, and at informal gatherings. Each consists of three to five movements with formal structures like those of the early classical symphonies, with movements generally longer than those of his two Water Journey suites. While more serious in character than either of the suites, the Parthien retain the lighthearted exuberance, even playfulness, of eighteenth-century divertimenti?including, nevertheless, some passages very reminiscent of Haydn?s more serious writing. The stylish period-instrument performances are captured in a warm, transparent recording. Essential listening for those interested in early American musical culture and for connoisseurs of classical chamber music.