A popular genre in the 18th century, divertimenti offered listeners a lighthearted "diversion" at social functions. Mozart wrote these three pieces for string quartet in Salzburg in 1772. The three-movement Italian-style compositions require only wind parts to assume another form, hence their common description as the "Salzburg Symphonies."Students, teachers, and professional string players will prize this authoritative collection of three divertimenti plus three additional quartets by the ever-popular composer. This convenient single-volume version is the least expensive edition available of these works, and its sturdy binding allows pages to remain open on music stands, promising years of use and enjoyment.