Paperback 2nd edition (March 2001)
Amazon Review
Book Description
Johann Joachim Quantz's On Playing Flute, first published in
both German and French editions in 1752, has long been
recognized as one of the most significant and in-depth treatises
on eighteenth-century musical thought, performance practice,
and style. This classic text of Baroque music instruction goes
far beyond an introduction to flute methods by offering a
comprehensive program of studies that is equally applicable to
other instruments and singers.
The work is comprised of three interrelated essays that
examine the education of the solo musician, the art of
accompaniment, and forms and style. Quantz provides detailed
treatment of a wide range of subjects, including phrasing,
ornamentation, accent, intensity, tuning, cadenzas, the role of
the concertmaster, stage deportment, and techniques for
playing dance movements. Of special interest is a table that
relates various tempos to the speed of the pulse, which will
help today's musicians solve the challenge of playing authentic
performance tempos in Baroque music. This edition includes
224 musical examples from Quantz's original text and features
a new introduction by translator Edward R. Reilly that
considers recent scholarship on Quantz's significant role in
eighteenth-century musical activity.
On Playing the Flute vividly conveys the constancy of musical
life over time and remains a valuable guide for contemporary
musicians.
About the author
Johann Joachim Quantz (1697-1773), son of a blacksmith,
enjoyed a long and successful career as a virtuoso soloist and
orchestral performer on a variety of instruments. He was also a
composer, an exceptional teacher and writer, and a flute
maker. Tutor and Royal Prussian Chamber Musician to
Frederick the Great, Quantz studied in Dresden and traveled
throughout Europe to refine his musical skills and knowledge.
Edward R. Reilly is Professor of Music, Emeritus, at Vassar
College. He is the author of Quantz and His Versuch: Three
Studies.