Did Mozart really dislike the Flute?

[matt_dubin]

In the letter dated February 14, 1778 to Leopold, Mozart said "I am quite powerless when obliged to compose for an instrument I cannot bear".

Is this the only known Mozart reference which indicates a dislike for the Flute?

If so, based upon the fact that Mozart was being rather dishonest with his father during his stay at Mannheim, I would not give this much credence.

Mozart seems to have composed lovingly for the flute before and after Mannheim.

I'll cite six examples:

1. Several passages in the Divertimento in D Major K.131.

2. The 2nd movement of the Symphony in D Major K.133.

3. The 2nd movement of the Symphony in G Major K.199.

4. The Flute and Harp Concerto K.299.

5. The 3rd and 4th movements of the "Posthorn" serenade K.320.

6. The Magic Flute.

As far as I can recollect, the only instrument which Mozart could not bear, at least as a child, was the trumpet.

Mozart probably just told his father he could not bear the flute as an excuse for taking his time with the commission so he could stay in Mannheim longer.

Mozart certainly could compose quickly. I read that "La Finta Giardiniera" was completed in nine days! The 1st act aria for Podesta (No.3) contains very nice passages for flutes and oboes.