MOZART: Serenade No. 9 KV 320 "Posthorn"

00:00 I. Adagio maestoso - Allegro con spirito
07:18 II. Menuetto. Allegretto - Trio
11:04 III. Concertante. Andante grazioso
18:03 IV. Rondeau. Allegro ma non troppo
23:13 V. Andantino
27:55 VI. Menuetto - Trio I - Trio II
32:17 VII. Finale. Presto

1956/05/22-23 Mono
Conductor: Eduard van Beinum
Concertgebouw Orchestra
Concertgebouw, Amsterdam
PHILIPS

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Mozart’s Serenade No. 9 in D major, KV 320, commonly known as the “Posthorn” Serenade, is a delightful and grand work composed in 1779. It was written for the University of Salzburg’s “Finalmusik” ceremony, a tradition where music was performed to mark the end of the academic year.

Structure and Movements
The serenade consists of seven movements:

I. Adagio maestoso – Allegro con spirito: The first movement begins with a majestic introduction, leading into a lively and spirited Allegro.
II. Minuetto: The second movement is a graceful minuet.
III. Concertante: Andante grazioso in G major: The third movement features a charming and elegant theme with concertante sections for flutes, oboes, and bassoons.
IV. Rondeau. Allegro ma non troppo in G major: The fourth movement is a lively rondo.
V. Andantino in D minor: The fifth movement is more reflective and somber.
VI. Minuetto – Trio 1 and 2: The sixth movement is another minuet, featuring a solo for the post horn in the second trio, which gives the serenade its nickname.
VII. Finale. Presto: The final movement is fast and energetic, bringing the serenade to a brilliant conclusion.

Historical Significance
The “Posthorn” Serenade is notable for its use of the post horn, a valveless brass instrument, which adds a unique and distinctive sound to the piece. The serenade is celebrated for its elegance, charm, and the variety of moods it encompasses. It remains a popular work in the orchestral repertoire and is frequently performed and recorded.