Composer: Antonio Vivaldi (1678-1741)
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
A deeply expressive slow movement in A minor, demonstrating Vivaldi's ability to convey profound emotion through simple melodic lines.
Practice the A natural minor scale.
Shape the opening phrase expressively.
Practice maintaining beautiful tone on long notes.
Work on the expressive descent.
Master the closing phrase with dramatic descent.
Vivaldi's Concerto in A Minor, RV 444, is another gem from his extensive recorder concerto output. A minor was one of Vivaldi's favorite keys, appearing frequently in his concertos and appearing in some of his most famous works (like the "Winter" concerto from "The Four Seasons"). This Largo movement showcases Vivaldi's operatic sensibility - the melodic line unfolds like a vocal aria, with long phrases that require careful breath management and expressive shaping. Written during Vivaldi's tenure at the Ospedale della Pietà in Venice, where he taught music to the orphaned girls, this concerto may have been performed by the talented young musicians there. The combination of minor mode melancholy with Vivaldi's natural gift for memorable melody creates music of great emotional depth. This movement is excellent for developing expressive playing and understanding of Baroque affect.
Once you can play this movement confidently, try: