Johann Gottlieb Graun was a German composer and violinist who left an indelible mark on the musical landscape of the 18th century. Born in Wahrenbrück in 1703 (or possibly 1701/1702, as sources vary), he was part of a prolific family of musicians; his brother Carl Heinrich Graun was also a well-regarded composer. Starting his musical education under his father, Graun later moved to Dresden, where he studied violin under Johann Georg Pisendel. In due course, he became a member of the Dresden orchestra, and subsequently, upon the recommendation of Pisendel, was appointed concertmaster at the court of Frederick the Great in Berlin, where he worked alongside his brother.

Graun's compositional output, although perhaps overshadowed by the more dominant figures of the Baroque period like J.S. Bach or Handel, is nonetheless significant and illustrative of the transition to the Classical style. His work includes a robust variety of chamber music, concertos, and orchestral works, which display a masterful approach to instrumental textures and an eloquent melodic sense. His music showcases the galant style that favored expressive melodies and clear harmonies, traits exemplified in his "Concertos for Strings" and "Trios for Violin or Viola & Clavier." In recent years, a renewed interest in less heralded composers of the Baroque and early Classical periods has led to a resurgence of his music, allowing listeners to explore the depth of Graun's skill as a composer and his contribution to the early classical canon.

Genres

Baroque

Classical Era

Galante Era

German Baroque

Latest Release

Graun: Melancholicus & Sanguineus

Johann Gottlieb Graun•

Johannes Pramsohler

Single - Released December 1, 2023