Serenade No. 7 – popularly known as the Haffner Serenade – stands as Mozart's most ambitious piece in the genre. Commissioned by Sigmund Haffner the younger, tasked with organizing his sister's wedding after his father's untimely demise, he sought the expertise of his friend Mozart who understood how to compose grandly for the city's high society. The serenade turned out magnificent, with an opening where the orchestra marches through the city, playing all the way to the celebration in the family's vast garden. To achieve this effect, Mozart removed the cellos from the orchestra, a choice mirrored in tonight's performance. While the fate of the basses during the parade remains unknown, they find their place in this concert.
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The nine movements – including three menuets and an incorporated violin concerto where the rondo stands as a testament to both compositional brilliance and technical execution – make this the most symphonic and perfected serenade from Mozart’s hand. It exudes a celebratory spirit, inviting listeners to envision the opulent wedding feast it commemorates.

Programme:
Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart - Serenade No. 7, K250/248b, Haffner Serenade

Performers:
The Norwegian Chamber Orchestra
Arvid Engegård, Artistic Director and Soloist