This is one of C.P.E. Bach's most unpredictable and exciting flute concertos, the first movement in particular bolting from one mood to another in the composer's trademark attention deficit disorder style. This Allegro molto begins in cheery agitation, zipping all over the staff before being held up by a sequence of dotted eighth notes, with a cantilena phrase briefly emerging before the impulsive opening material regains dominance. By comparison, the flute enters almost timidly and attempts several lyrical phrases that are inevitably interrupted by the orchestra.
