This Concerto was originally scored for harpsichord, strings, and continuo, but was transcribed, along with others of like scoring, for flute, strings, and continuo. A version of this Concerto in B flat major was also made by C.P.E. Bach for cello and the same supporting forces (Wq. 171). It seems that Bach, Court Harpsichordist in Berlin from 1740 to 1758, was prevailed upon to provide music for the King, a good amateur flutist, and other Court musicians, for their periodic evening performances where Bach himself was also a regular participant.

This Concerto in B flat major is cast in three movements, the first of which, a lively Allegretto, imparts a jaunty, carefree sense in its joyous music. There is a lengthy introduction by the strings, after which the flute appears, giving the music a slightly more playful character, if seeming to strip away a bit of its lightness. The writing is masterly throughout, particularly in its imaginative use of dotted rhythms and thirds.

The ensuing Adagio is more serious, especially when the forlorn flute makes its belated entry. Much of the time the music seems almost to struggle forward, as if weighted down by heavy emotion; yet the mood is relatively light much of the time, the flute often singing charmingly in its higher ranges. The finale, at about six minutes' duration, may be a bit shorter than its siblings, but is not short on energy, in spite of the flute's attempt to hold back the tempo on its entry. This delightful Allegro assai movement is brilliant and effervescent throughout, with deftly wrought flute writing that offers substantial challenge to the soloist while imparting vivid color to the music.

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