J.J. Quantz: Concerto for flute in in G Minor, No. 290 (QV 5:200) was written approximately in 1750-1755. The concerto was written specifically for King Frederick II (The Great) of Prussia. It was tailored to the King's technical strengths, emphasizing the "sensitive style" (Empfindsamer Stil) that prioritized intimate, subjective expression.
The work was premiered at the King’s private evening chamber concerts in Potsdam. In these sessions, the King often acted as the soloist, accompanied by a small ensemble that frequently included C.P.E. Bach on the harpsichord or fortepiano.
This period marks the peak of Quantz's "Berlin School" influence while serving as the exclusive court musician for Frederick the Great. During these years, Quantz was the highest-paid musician in Europe and was actively publishing his definitive treatise, Versuch einer Anweisung die Flûte traversière zu spielen (1752).

Rachel Brown (flute), Roy Goodman (conductor), The Brandenburg Consort, 1997, Hyperion Records / Universal Music Group

1. Allegro di molto

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Rachel Brown (flute), Roy Goodman (conductor), The Brandenburg Consort, 1997, Hyperion Records / Universal Music Group

2. Affettuoso

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Rachel Brown (flute), Roy Goodman (conductor), The Brandenburg Consort, 1997, Hyperion Records / Universal Music Group

3. Presto

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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.