The Judgement of Paris, a musical contest in London, saw Gottfried Finger finish in fourth place, a result that prompted his eventual departure from England for Germany. Throughout his career, the Moravian-born composer navigated the shifting loyalties of various European courts, establishing himself as a prolific creator of sonatas, theatrical works, and instrumental suites during the Baroque era.
Early Career and English Years
After completing his initial musical training in his native Olomouc, Finger secured a position at the court of the Prince-Bishop Karl II von Liechtenstein-Kastelkorn, spending time in Kroměříž. By 1682, he was active as a musician in Munich. Three years later, he relocated to London, entering the court chapel of King James II. During his time in England, he published his Opus 1, a collection of twelve sonatas dedicated to the King. Following the exile of James II in 1688, Finger transitioned into a period of freelance work, maintaining a significant role within London's musical life until 1701.
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Following his departure from England, Finger took a post as a chamber musician in Wrocław. By 1702, he had moved to Berlin to serve at the local court. In 1707, he joined the court chapel of the imperial governor in Innsbruck, where he was appointed concertmaster the following year. This tenure proved durable, as he remained with the governor's household during its subsequent relocations to Neuburg an der Danau in 1717, Heidelberg in 1718, and finally Mannheim by 1720.
Musical Output and Legacy
Finger was a versatile composer and virtuoso on the viol. His body of work includes numerous sonatas for various instrument combinations, such as the flute and trumpet. Beyond instrumental music, he composed operas including The Victory of Beauty over the Heroes and Roxane and Alexander's Wedding, though both are now lost. His publishing efforts included works released by Estienne Roger and John Walsh. He remained an active member of the Mannheim court chapel until his death in 1730.
Fast facts
- Born: 1660, Olomouc
- Died: 1730, Mannheim
- Occupations: Composer, chapelmaster, concertmaster, viol player, cellist
- Movement: Baroque music
- Notable Works: Opus 1, Opus 2, Opus 4, Opus 5
- Known Opera: The Victory of Beauty over the Heroes
Questions readers ask
What instruments did Gottfried Finger play?
He was a virtuoso on the viol and was also skilled as a cellist.
Where did Finger work throughout his life?
He worked in Olomouc, Kroměříž, Munich, London, Wrocław, Berlin, Innsbruck, Neuburg an der Donau, Heidelberg, and Mannheim.
Achievements
- Instruments: cello
- Genres: opera and classical music
