Johann Joachim Quantz

Johann Joachim Quantz , 1697-1773, German flutist and composer for the flute. In 1741 he became chamber musician and teacher of the flute to Frederick the Great, for whom Quantz wrote more than 500 pieces, including flute sonatas and concertos. He also wrote a famous textbook for the flute, Versuch einer Anweisung die Flöte traversière zu spielen (1752), which was translated into French, English, and Dutch, and invented several improvements upon the instrument.

Quantz, Johann Joachim (b Oberscheden, Hanover, 1697; d Potsdam, 1773). Ger. flautist and composer. Began mus. training 1708. In 1718 was oboist in Polish King's orch. in Dresden and Warsaw, becoming flautist after study with Buffardin. Engaged 1728 as teacher in Dresden of Crown Prince Frederick of Prussia; in 1741, when Frederick became King, entered royal service as court composer, chamber musician, and dir. of royal concerts. Added 2nd key to fl. and invented sliding tuning device. Wrote comprehensive method on fl.-playing (1752 and many subsequent edns.). Comp. 300 fl. concs., 200 fl. sonatas, mostly for the use of his royal patron, 60 trio sonatas, 22 hymns, and some songs.