The Concerto for Piano and Orchestra No. 1 in D major, K. 107/1, is part of a set of three piano concertos composed by Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart based on sonatas by Johann Christian Bach. Created in 1772, when Mozart was just 16 years old, these works reflect his early engagement with the piano concerto genre and already demonstrate his unique compositional style.
The D major concerto is based on the Keyboard Sonata Op. 5, No. 2 by Johann Christian Bach and is structured in three movements:
Allegro: The first movement is characterized by its cheerful and lively mood, typical of the Classical music era. Mozart skillfully adapts Bach's work, giving it a new dimension through the inclusion of the orchestra.
Andante: The second movement has a calmer, more contemplative mood, showcasing Mozart's ability for lyrical melody and emotional depth.
Allegro: The final movement returns to the vivacity of the first, concluding the concerto with a joyful and energetic finale and demonstrating Mozart's mastery in handling form and structure.
Even though these early concertos by Mozart are based on existing works, they reveal his creative ability to transform musical material and enrich it with his own voice. The Concerto in D major, K. 107/1, is an early testament to Mozart's genius and an important step in the development of the classical piano concerto.