Christoph Enzel

Quartet in F KV 370 (368B)

Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart wrote the oboe quartet in F, K-number 370, early in 1771 for the oboist Friedrich Ramm. In an impressive manner, this composition gives expression to the intimacy inherent in Mozart?s chamber music: After the introduction of the theme by the soloist, the supporting voices join in taking an active part in the musical flow of the first movement and converting the oboe?s soliloqui into a dialogue. An expressive, marvellous theme dominates the second movement, the suspense of which does not ease until the composition proceeds to the concluding rondeau - a rondeau almost bursting with its exuberant joie de vivre.

This composition certainly ranks with Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart?s best-known and most beautiful pieces of work.

On the occasion of the Mozart Year 2006 I have ventured to write an arrangement for the saxophone quartet clair-obscur.

To a large extent, I have retained the original key and octave positions; for the parts which include technical difficulties well-tried alternative ossia possibilities are available.

Mozart's oboe quartet is a real MUST and represents a great musical challenge to each saxophone quartet.