Recorder Sonata in A Minor, HWV 362 - Allegro

Learn Handel's distinctive melodic style
Master virtuosic Baroque writing
Develop technical facility and speed

About This Piece

Composer: George Frideric Handel (1685-1759)

Difficulty: Early Intermediate

Notes Used: A, B, C, D, E, F, G, A (high), B (high), C (high)

Time Signature: 4/4

Key: A Minor

Fingering Review

Full Movement (Simplified)

This famous Allegro showcases Handel's gift for dramatic, virtuosic writing. One of the most beloved recorder sonata movements from the Baroque era.

Practice Tips

Allegro tempo: Fast and lively - but start slowly and build speed gradually
Eighth note clarity: Each note must be clear and even
Handelian drama: Bring out the dramatic contrasts in the music
Breath management: Plan breaths carefully to maintain momentum

Practice Exercises

Practice the complete A minor scale in eighth notes.

Master the energetic opening gesture.

Practice the typical Handelian sequence.

Work on the dramatic descending passage.

Put together the full opening section.

Historical Context

George Frideric Handel's Recorder Sonata in A Minor, HWV 362, is one of the most significant works in the recorder repertoire. Composed during Handel's London period (after 1712), this sonata demonstrates his mastery of instrumental writing and his understanding of the recorder's capabilities. The Allegro movement is particularly famous for its virtuosic passages, dramatic contrasts, and memorable melodies. Handel's Italian training shows in the brilliant, operatic quality of the writing - the recorder "sings" like a soprano voice in an Italian opera. This sonata has remained continuously popular among recorder players since its composition and is considered essential repertoire. The A minor key gives the movement a sense of noble melancholy combined with energetic brilliance.

Performance Goal: Achieve a brilliant, virtuosic performance with clear articulation and dramatic flair. The eighth notes should sparkle, and the music should have the dramatic intensity of Handel's operatic writing. This is a show piece - play it with confidence and panache!

Next Steps

Once you can play this movement confidently, try:

Building up to full Allegro tempo with a metronome
Adding dynamic terracing (Baroque echo effects)
Learning the complete sonata with all four movements
Exploring other Handel recorder sonatas
Comparing Handel's style with Telemann's