The divertimento as a musical genre dates back to the nineteenth century. Diver – timenti were composed for various social occasions and were intended to be light, uncomplicated and cheerful. Such pieces were often scored for small string en – semble. Over the years this effortless, elegant form has appeared in many differ – ent musical styles and, to a large extent, set the standard for the virtuosic concert chamber music we know today. A number of the most prominent composers of our age have engaged with this most fascinating ensemble style and have contributed to its further refinement as a chamber-symphonic showpiece.