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Tag: Toy Symphony

Toy Symphonies a German Musical Quirk

Yet another interesting cultural quirk, to rank alongside the German fairy tale opera, the toy symphony (or “kindersinfonie”) seems to have been all the rage in Germany for well over a century, at least since Leopold Mozart’s cheeky lark, long attributed to Haydn, which includes plenty of drums, toy trumpets, and bird whistles. Depending on whether or not you have little ones congregating at your house, this may or may not be the escape from Christmas you’re looking for. Click on the links at your own risk.

Leopold Mozart, Cassation in G major, “Toy Symphony” (1760s)

Bernhard Romberg, Symphonie burlesque, “Toy Symphony” (1852)

“Kinder-Symphonie,” a late addition to the genre by Carl Reinecke (1897)

December 27, 2021
Leopold Mozart At 300 A Father’s Legacy

Music historians are often critical of Leopold Mozart, describing him as haughty, domineering, and tyrannical. But really, when you are the father of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, what are you going to do?

Today is the 300th anniversary of the birth of Leopold Mozart. Leopold was a composer of some ability himself, so give him credit for possessing the good sense and enough humility to recognize that the talent of his children far eclipsed his own.

Of course, times being what they were, Nannerl didn’t get to enjoy the same professional advantages that Wolfgang did. But Leopold loved both children. He raised Nannerl’s son as his own, and one can only imagine his frustration over Wolfgang never being able to land a position commensurate with his genius.

Of his own works, Leopold’s “Toy Symphony” remains popular – although it was long attributed to Haydn – as does his “Musical Sleigh-Ride.” But his Trumpet Concerto must be among his very best.

Movt. I, Adagio

Movt. II, Allegro

Happy birthday, and best wishes in your fourth century, Leopold Mozart.

November 14, 2019

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