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Donald Macleod explores Giuseppe Sammartini's new royal appointment.

Giuseppe was described as the greatest oboe performer the world had ever known, and Giovanni as the true father of the symphony; Donald Macleod explores the lives and music of the Sammartini brothers.

Giuseppe Sammartini had made quite a name for himself in London. As an oboist, he performed in theatre orchestras, in military bands and at pleasure gardens. By 1735, he was a famous both as a performer and teacher, and an advertisement arrived in the newspapers, offering a reward for Giuseppe's lost oboe reeds. It was rumoured that he made his own. Sammartini would also perform on other woodwind instruments and he composed music for these, including his Sonata in D minor for two recorders. Soon, Giuseppe Sammartini had made such an impact in London that he was appointed master of music to the children of the Prince of Wales.

Giovanni Sammartini was also making a significant impression in Italy. He taught future composers such as Gluck, conducted concerts of his own music organised by the Austrian Governor in Milan and, in 1740, auditioned singers and an organist for the Cathedral in Milan. His popularity abroad was also increasing, with regular performances in France and England. The Duke of Cumberland was particularly fond of his trio sonatas.