Francesco Maria Veracini’s Concerto à otto stromenti in D major (c. 1711–1712) is a virtuosic Late Baroque concerto for solo violin, strings, and continuo, often featuring additional wind instruments (oboes/trumpets).
He was a renowned Italian Baroque composer and virtuoso violinist from Florence, celebrated for his highly individual, virtuosic, and often eccentric style. He was born into a musical family in Florence. He famously survived a fall from a high window in Dresden in 1722, which left him with a permanent limp. He was known for his arrogance and, in later years, for his intense dedication to his art.
A leading performer of his time, he traveled extensively across Europe, notably working in Dresden and London, leaving behind a significant repertoire of sonatas and concertos. His music is considered to bridge the high Baroque and early Classical eras, with a style described as innovative, sometimes subjective, and technically advanced. His 12 Sonate accademiche (1744) are considered his most important contribution to the repertoire.
Today’s choice was composed for the Austrian ambassador in Venice.
- Structure: Typically in three movements (Allegro – Largo – Allegro).
- Instrumentation: Often listed as a solo violin with an ensemble that includes two oboes, two trumpets, timpani, strings, and basso continuo.
- Context: It was performed in 1711 or early 1712 to celebrate the visit of the Austrian ambassador to Venice.
- Style: It features significant virtuosic passages for the solo violin and has been noted for its “orchestral ritornelli” that alternate with a concertino group of winds.
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