What is divertimenti?

Divertimenti is a term that is commonly used to refer to a form of light instrumental music that was composed during the 18th century. It is believed that the word "divertimento" originated from the Italian word "divertire," which means to amuse or entertain.

Divertimenti were typically composed for small ensembles, such as string quartets or wind quintets, and were intended to be enjoyed as background music for social gatherings or other informal occasions. They often consisted of a series of short pieces or movements, each with its own distinct character and mood.

Despite their light and entertaining nature, divertimenti were often quite complex and technically demanding to play, requiring a high level of skill and musicianship. Some of the most famous composers of divertimenti include Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, Franz Joseph Haydn, and Antonio Vivaldi.

Today, divertimenti continue to be played and enjoyed by musicians and music lovers alike, and are considered an important part of the classical music repertoire.