This past Monday marked the birthday of Giovanni Battista Martini (1706-1784). The Italian composer and Conventual Franciscan Friar is now a mere footnote in the dusty pages of music history. But within the musical circles of eighteenth century Bologna, Martini was a respected figure. At the age of 19, he was appointed chapel-master of Bologna’s Basilica San Francesco (pictured above). He was a renowned teacher whose students included the young Mozart, J.C Bach, and Christoph Gluck.
Martini’s compositional output includes sacred music (Missa solemnis, Requiem) and a host of instrumental works. A transcription of this charmingly tuneful Gavotte from Martini’s Harpsichord Sonata No. 12 opens Book 3 of the Suzuki Violin repertoire. Here is Susanna Piolanti’s recording of the original:
Recordings
Martini: Sonate d’intavolatura per l’organo & il cembalo, Susanna Piolanti iTunes
That is very familiar to me right now and I really enjoyed it! I am re-learning the violin (without a teacher) after 40+ years away, and am currently working on this Suzuki gavotte. The harpsichord version sounds better, but I’m really enjoying the challenge of getting back into playing.
That is very familiar to me right now and I really enjoyed it! I am re-learning the violin (without a teacher) after 40+ years away, and am currently working on this Suzuki gavotte. The harpsichord version sounds better, but I’m really enjoying the challenge of getting back into playing.
Thank you for your comment, Celine. I’m glad you enjoyed hearing this original version. Best of luck in your violin studies!