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MOZART – Divertimento in D Major, K.136 – FOUR CELLOS

Other Identification:
The “Divertimento in D Major” (K136) is the first of a collection of three divertimenti in the form of small symphonies, and are often known as the “Salzburg” symphonies. Mozart was only 16 when he composed these, in 1772, and they all lack a minuet which might make them true symphonies – perhaps Mozart’s visits to Italy at that time influenced him into a rather more Corelli concerto grosso form usually set in 3 movements, for other divertimenti of Mozart have up to six movements and even more, and often also included wind instruments! As said, Mozart was then just 16 years of age, and already held the post of Court Concertmaster to Hieronymus Coloredo, Prince Archbishop of Salzburg – in keeping with Classical conventions, works such as these for string orchestra could also be played by the four voices of the string quartet when the occasion demanded. Therefore David Johnstone sees these as well worthy as being presented either by Cello Orchestra or by four individual soloists.

Movements or sections:
The three movements are titled:
I — Allegro
II — Andante
III — Presto

Instrumentation:
QUARTET OF FOUR CELLOS
Also possible, in theory, to be played by a Cello orchestra!

4 PDFs, one of the complete work for each cello

Approximate difficulty:
Although these must be classed as difficult for cellists, they are well playable too for advanced cellists. The first (and second) cello parts have substantial thumb position; but when one sets down comfortably to finger the part it may be found that more often than not the thumb (Q) rests on the A/D harmonics, or a fourth lower (E/D).
Johnstone sees this as a worthy addition to cello ensemble repertoire! He has produced the individual cello player parts; however if a conductor is used he/she should use the original string general score – the fun here has been changing the registers of all the parts (and not necessarily simply one octave lower either!), and apart from this it can be said that Johnstone has been faithful to Mozart’s intentions!!

Links (Audio – Visual), and known performances given by:
Wolfgang A. MOZART – Divertimento in D Major, last movement (Presto)
Gabriel Faur x 4 (Gabriel Faur records ALL parts)

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Johnstone Music has been performed by orchestras and conservatories worldwide, earning international recognition in cello repertoire.

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