Johan Agrell

Johan Joachim Agrell was a composer who performed upon the violin and harpsichord. Most of his compositions did not emanate from his life in Sweden but were written during his residence in Kassell and Nuremburg where he acceded to the position of Kapellmeister in 1746. He not only directed music but was allowed to compose music for weddings and conduct the musicians of the city. It is possible that Agrell was influenced by the native music of Sweden but this is uncertain. His compositions were primarily, lauded vocal works (now lost), and instrumental pieces both for experts and novitiates. Agrell is attributed with composing symphonies, concertos for harpsichord, chamber music, concertos for solo instruments accompanied by harpsichord, and solo instruments. An accomplished violin player Agrell's compositions lack melodic insight but demonstrate a complete understanding of the forms of his time. A complete study has not yet been done of Agrell's legacy.
© Keith Johnson /TiVo