Johann Stamitz
(Born; Havlíckuv Brod, bap. 30 June 1717; Died; Mannheim,
?27 March, 1757). Bohemian composer. One of a family of musicians, he was engaged by the
Mannheim court in Circa; 1741, becoming first violinist in 1743, Konzertmeister in 1745-6
and director of instrumental music in 1750. In 1754-5 he visited Paris, where his music
was very successful. Under him the Mannheim orchestra became the most renowned ensemble of
the time throughout Europe (see MANNHEIM SCHOOL).
One of the foremost early Classical symphonists, Stamitz wrote over 50 symphonies, ten
orchestral trios, numerous concertos (most for violin), many chamber works and a few
sacred pieces. Especially imaginative and distinguished are his symphonies and orchestral
trios, which were the first symphonic works consistently (though not always) in four
movements, including a minuet and trio. Stamitz was important for transferring and
adapting the Italian overture style to the symphony. He added more wind parts to the usual
ensemble (strings, sometimes with two horns), often giving them a distinctive role; he
used striking dynamic effects (notably the crescendo); and he introduced contrasting
thematic material in many first movements. He strongly influenced other Mannheim
composers.
Orchestral music over 50 syms.; 10
orch trios; over 25 concs., incl. 14 for vn, 11 for fl, 1 for cl; dances
Chamber music14 trios; 8 vn sonatas; vn
solo works
Vocal music Mass, D (1755); 4 sacred
works; 2 secular vocal works
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