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The University High School Band
The History and Theory of Music

Frederick the Great

Frederick the Great Playing Flute at Sanssouci by Adolph Menzel

In addition to being the King of Prussia from 1740 to 1786, Frederick II was also a relatively accomplished musician. He considered involvement in and patronage of the arts essential to his theory of enlightened despotism, where a ruler exercises unlimited legal powers, but is self-restrained in accordance with the laws of reason and justice. (This works great as long as you have a king who is reasonable and just.)

When he was not running the Prussian government or performing miracles on the battlefield, Frederick was often found performing as a flautist, often dazzling his admirers with concerti he had composed himself.

Frederick's example inspired the young Austrian Prince Joseph (despite the fact that Joseph's mother Maria Theresa had fought two wars against Frederick) to eventually become a patron for composers like Antonio Salieri and Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart.

Compositions

Sonata in D Major

Flute Concerto No. 1

Flute Concerto No. 2

Open-Ended Question

What are the advantages and disadvantages of enlightened despotism?