Before roughly 1780 the term “Divertimento” was used for all kinds of instrumental ensemble music (Haydn’s String Quartets Op. 20 were called “Divertimenti”). Only after 1780 the term described music of an altogether lighter character, aimed at pleasing rather than challenging the audience. Divertimenti were in high demand by the upcoming bourgeoisie for domestic use.

This new recording presents Divertimenti by Viennese composers: Karl Ditters von Dittersdorf, Johann Michael Haydn and Jan Kritel Vanhal. They are for 2 violins (or violin and viola) and violone, a bass member of the string family. The music is indeed pleasing, entertaining, brilliant, reminiscent of high class conversation.

Played on period instruments by Musica Elegentia, an Italian group specialized in 16-18th century instrumental music.