J.J. Quantz: Concerto for flute in G Minor No. 110 (QV 5:193) was written approximately in 1745–1748. This was a period of immense stability and creative focus for Quantz at the court of Frederick the Great. Having been the King’s exclusive composer since 1741, Quantz was at the height of his powers, providing nearly 300 concertos for the King’s nightly Abendmusiken (evening concerts).
In the 18th century, G minor was often associated with "sadness," "seriousness," and "agitation." Quantz used this key to provide a dramatic contrast to the many bright, major-key works he wrote for the King. It reflects the Empfindsamer Stil (Sensitive Style), where the music was intended to move the listener through rapidly shifting, intense emotions.
The premiere took place at the Sanssouci Palace or the City Palace in Potsdam during one of the King's private chamber concerts. Frederick himself likely performed the solo part, accompanied by a small string ensemble and a keyboardist (usually C.P.E. Bach).
Under the strict terms of Quantz's contract, the King held the exclusive rights to the manuscript; it was never published during the 18th century to ensure the royal repertoire remained private and prestigious.

James Galway

Jörg Faerber (conductor), Württembergisches Kammerorchester Heilbronn, 1991, BMG Music / RCA Red Seal

1. Allegro assai

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James Galway

Jörg Faerber (conductor), Württembergisches Kammerorchester Heilbronn, 1991, BMG Music / RCA Red Seal

2. Cantabile

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James Galway

Jörg Faerber (conductor), Württembergisches Kammerorchester Heilbronn, 1991, BMG Music / RCA Red Seal

3. Vivace

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Quantz Johann Joachim

Johann Joachim Quantz (1697-1773) was a German composer, flutist and flute maker. He was regarded as the most prominent flutist of the eighteen century who made a big impact on Frederick II "The Great", King of Prussia who was his student as a young prince. The King played flute and composed some works for flute as well.

Quantz was born in Oberscheden in a family of blacksmith. After his father’s death he began music studies with his uncle and local organist. In 1717 he moved to Dresden where he studied counterpoint with J.D.Zelenka and flute with P.G.Buffardin, principal flute of the Royal Orchestra (Staatskapelle Dresden). From 1724 Quantz toured Europe for three years as a flutist, impressing by his artistry Scarlatti, Handel, Blavet and Queen of Prussia who wanted to hire him. Instead, he taught young Crown Prince Frederic II of Prussia despite his father’s (Frederick the Great) disapproval. When Frederick II became King of Prussia in 1740, Quantz officially took a position as a composer, flutist and flute maker at the King’s court in Potsdam until his death in 1773.
Besides his numerous works for flute Quantz is known as the author of Versuch einer Anweisung die Flöte traversiere zu spielen (Playing the traverse Flute) treatise as well as for his mechanical improvements of the flute as an instrument.