At one time a rival to Haydn and Beethoven in popular esteem, the Bohemian-born Franz Krommer ended his career as Court Composer to the Emperor in Vienna. He left a wide range of compositions, some 300 in number.

Although he wrote much symphonic, chamber and vocal music, Krommer is largely remembered for his wind music. In style it has a forthright vigour and his use of instrumental colours is both bold and appealing. His group of Partitas certainly rank among the finest produced at this time, their vivacity and virtuosity a constant attraction.