Recorder Sonata in C Minor, TWV 41:c2 - Movement 1

Learn to play in C minor with Eb and Ab
Develop dramatic Baroque expression
Master chromatic alterations

About This Piece

Composer: Georg Philipp Telemann (1681-1767)

Difficulty: Early Intermediate

Notes Used: C, D, Eb, F, G, Ab, Bb, C (high), D (high)

Time Signature: 3/4

Key: C Minor

Fingering Review

Full Movement (Simplified)

This deeply expressive slow movement in C minor showcases the dramatic potential of the minor mode. Play with intensity and emotion.

Practice Tips

Grave character: Play with weight and seriousness - Grave means "heavy" or "serious"
Chromatic notes: Pay special attention to Eb and Ab fingerings
Expression: Use the dark quality of C minor to create dramatic intensity
Phrasing: Shape long phrases with careful breath control

Practice Exercises

Master the C natural minor scale with Eb and Ab.

Practice the C minor chord tones.

Shape the noble opening phrase.

Practice the chromatic descent smoothly.

Master the ascending pattern with all chromatic notes.

Historical Context

Telemann's Sonata in C Minor, TWV 41:c2, represents the darker, more serious side of Baroque composition. C minor was considered one of the most dramatic and pathetic (in the Baroque sense of "emotional") keys. The opening Grave movement uses this key's expressive potential to the fullest, with long, singing lines and careful chromatic inflections. The presence of both Eb and Ab creates a distinctive tonal color that was associated with deep sorrow and noble suffering in Baroque music theory. This sonata demonstrates Telemann's mastery of the galant style while maintaining the emotional depth of the earlier Baroque tradition. It's a perfect piece for students to explore more complex chromatic harmony and expressive playing.

Performance Goal: Play with deep expression and a rich, dark tone quality. Let the chromatic notes (Eb and Ab) add to the emotional intensity of the music. Take time to shape each phrase dramatically.

Next Steps

Once you can play this movement confidently, try:

Adding subtle vibrato to enhance the expressive quality
Experimenting with dynamic contrasts for dramatic effect
Learning the faster movements of this sonata
Comparing this with other minor key sonatas