- Master A minor's passionate, dramatic character
- Execute chromatic passages and modal inflections
- Develop rhetorical expression and affect
- Perfect complete four-movement sonata form
About This Piece
Composer: George Frideric Handel (1685-1759)
Difficulty: Advanced
Key: A minor (no sharps or flats)
Movements: I. Larghetto - II. Allegro - III. Adagio - IV. Allegro
Opus: Op. 1 No. 4
I. Larghetto - Expressive Opening
Deeply expressive with chromatic harmonies. Tempo: ♩ = 45-52
II. Allegro - Energetic Fugue
Imitative counterpoint with technical demands. Tempo: ♩ = 108-120
III. Adagio - Emotional Heart
Requires extensive ornamentation and possible cadenza. Tempo: ♩ = 48-54
IV. Allegro - Brilliant Finale
Dance-like finale with technical brilliance. Tempo: ♩ = 112-126
Performance Practice
A minor's Baroque affect: passionate, serious, with dramatic intensity. This sonata is among Handel's most dramatic works for recorder. The chromatic harmonies in the Larghetto create intense emotional expression. The Adagio is particularly moving and benefits from heartfelt ornamentation. The final Allegro provides brilliant resolution to the dramatic arc.