Some musicians have proposed that the Serenade K.361 was composed for Mozart’s own wedding, while others aren’t in agreement. What is true is that Serenades like Mozart’s K.361 were often composed for functions and outdoor parties, perhaps hence the lack of strings; wind instruments were (and still are, for that matter) considerably louder, something that makes sense given the supposed atmosphere in which Serenades were to be performed.
There are, however, as many moments in K.361 which are tender, soft and beautiful as there are moments which are strong, forceful and energetic. With the use of 2 oboes, 2 clarinets, 2 basset horns, 2 bassoons, 4 horns and double bass, there is an opportunity for a large range of dynamic expression. The beauty of this piece is, though, that Mozart never over- or under-does it when it comes to texture. Despite the thick forces available, there is a clarity throughout which only Mozart can achieve through use of simple yet effective musical devices.
Here is a performance of the Gran Partita by Mozart; a truly amazing piece of music!
