ENSEMBLE SPORCK: Principes de la Flute

The transverse flute was among the favourite instruments at the court of French King Louis XIV, where leading players of the turn of the 17th and 18th centuries served. One of them was Jacques Hotteterre, who besides performing in court ensembles also devoted himself to teaching and instrument-making. Among his students were notable figures such as Duke Philip II of Orleans, the future regent of the kingdom.

In 1707, Hotteterre published the treatise "Principles of Playing the Transverse Flute, Recorder and Oboe" — the very first work dedicated to teaching the transverse flute. This treatise for self-taught musicians gained great popularity; during the 18th century it appeared in several editions and remains among the fundamental texts for interpreting Baroque music.

The concert will present music by Jacques Hotteterre and his contemporaries, composed at the time of this treatise's publication and reflecting the contemporary ideals of flute playing.

Baroque flutes: Lukáš M. Vytlačil
Harpsichord: Lukáš Vendl