Polydorus (Graun)

Polydorus (c. 1709 – 1767) was the given name of Johann Ernst Gräun, a German composer and violinist of the Baroque and early Classical periods. He often used the Italianized form of his name, Polydorus, in his compositions and on musical scores. He was one of three composer brothers, the others being Johann Gottlieb Graun and Carl Heinrich Graun.

Johann Ernst Gräun, generally known as Polydorus, served as Kapellmeister to Count August Wilhelm of Brunswick-Wolfenbüttel at Brunswick. His compositions include numerous concertos, sonatas, and trio sonatas for various instruments, reflecting the prevalent musical styles of his time. While overshadowed by his more famous brother Carl Heinrich, Polydorus' works nonetheless demonstrate a solid command of counterpoint and melodic invention. He contributed significantly to the musical landscape of the mid-18th century, particularly within the North German tradition. His musical style bridges the gap between the late Baroque of Bach and Handel and the emerging Classical idioms of Haydn and Mozart. Further research into his surviving works could reveal more about his specific contributions to the evolution of instrumental music during this period.