Franz Krommer, whose full name was František Vincenc Kramář, was an esteemed Czech composer and violinist whose career bridged the Classical and Romantic periods. Born on November 27, 1759, in Kamenice, Moravia (now the Czech Republic), he was a contemporary of Beethoven and is best known for his contributions to the chamber music repertoire, especially his compositions for wind instruments.

Krommer's career flourished in Vienna, a hub for classical music, where he held various positions including the music director of the ballet at the Kärntnertortheater and eventually, in 1818, becoming the Imperial Court Composer for Emperor Franz I of Austria. His compositions, often characterized by melodic inventiveness and skilled orchestrations, include over 300 works comprising symphonies, concertos, string quartets, and a substantial body of wind ensemble music. Particularly notable are his works for the clarinet, such as the Clarinet Concerto op. 35 and Concertino op. 38, reflecting the instrument's rise in popularity during the early 19th century. Despite being overshadowed by some of his contemporaries, Krommer's music has seen a resurgence in modern concerts and recordings, offering a window into the rich tapestry of late-Classical music. He passed away on January 8, 1831, leaving behind a body of work that continues to be appreciated for its charm, craftsmanship, and the window it provides into the evolution of music between two major eras.

Genres

Classical Era

Czech Classical

Latest Release

Clarinet Concerto op.35 · Concertino op. 38

Franz Krommer•

Howard Griffiths•

Orchestra della Svizzera Italiana

Album - 8 Tracks - Released April 21, 2023