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Classical Fact

Some monarchs were content to take credit for the artistic achievements of others. Frederick the Second of Prussia, on the other hand, could point to his own musical talents and accomplishments. Frederick, known in history as Frederick the Great, began studying the organ at age seven and took instruction from Johann Joaquim Quantz. Frederick's father however, felt that such frivolous pursuits would interfere with his son's study of the weighty matters of state. But, the crown prince quietly practiced with the royal chamber orchestra. Once Frederick became King, he was free to indulge his passions. Frederick The Great wrote over one hundred sonatas for flute, four concertos and four symphonies, as well as a number smaller works, all of which can be found today.