Gran Partita

Who does not remember Salieri, transfixed by fear before the genius of Mozart while listening to the sublime adagio of the Serenade 'Grand Partita' in B flat major in Milos Forman's film? This admirable scene speaks volumes about the mystery of creation at such a level. Yet we know nothing about this work, neither the date of its composition, nor even the origin of its mysterious title. What is certain is the profound maturity of its writing, its difficulty of execution and an expressive quality that is rarely encountered in the entertaining serenades of this period.

The summit of the score, this adagio is a true miracle with the expressive volutes of the oboe and clarinet rising on a gentle pulsation similar to the beating of the heart. The other six movements are in tune, led by the first clarinetist who seems to be the leader, until the final rondo of wild gaiety linking the melodies in a virtuoso writing certainly intended for seasoned performers.