Recorder Sonata in D minor, HWV 367a - Movement 2 (Vivace)
- Master rapid Vivace tempo
- Develop brilliant minor mode technique
- Execute virtuosic sixteenth note passages
- Perfect dramatic Handelian character
About This Piece
Composer: George Frideric Handel (1685-1759)
Difficulty: Late Intermediate
Notes Used: D, E, F, G, A, Bb, C, C#, D (high), E (high), F (high), G (high)
Key: D minor
Movement: II. Vivace
Fingering Review
Complete Vivace Movement
Rapid sixteenth notes in continuous motion creating dramatic energy.
Handel's characteristic rising sequences building dramatic tension.
Contrapuntal writing with imitative entries showcasing Handel's craft.
Dramatic culmination with wide leaps and brilliant figuration.
Ornamentation Guide
Minimal ornamentation in fast tempo - trills only at major cadences.
Technical Exercises
Practice the scale at Vivace tempo with clear articulation.
Develop finger agility with various rhythmic groupings.
Master Handel's characteristic sequential patterns.
Performance Practice Notes
- Vivace tempo: ♩ = 140-150, very fast; clarity is essential
- Articulation: Light, crisp tonguing; avoid over-articulation which slows tempo
- Ornamentation: Minimal - only cadential trills; don't obscure rapid lines
- Character: Dramatic, energetic; D minor intensity with virtuosic brilliance
- Technique: Finger precision crucial; practice slowly then gradually increase tempo
Historical Context
The Vivace from Handel's D minor Sonata, HWV 367a, represents Baroque virtuosity at its peak. This movement showcases Handel's contrapuntal skill (fugal sections) combined with Italian-style brilliant passage work. D minor's association with dramatic intensity is fully exploited in this perpetual motion movement. The rapid tempo and continuous sixteenth notes require excellent technical facility and breath control. This type of movement would have displayed both the performer's virtuosity and the recorder's capabilities in the hands of a skilled player. The piece demonstrates why Handel's recorder sonatas remain cornerstones of the repertoire - combining musical substance with technical challenge.
Performance Goal: Execute this Vivace with brilliant clarity and dramatic energy. Every sixteenth note should be crisp and even, maintaining the perpetual motion character. Project confidence and virtuosity while respecting the minor mode intensity. This movement represents advanced technical achievement and prepares for professional-level repertoire.
Practice Strategy
- Begin practice at ♩ = 60, gradually increasing by 4 bpm increments
- Practice with rhythmic variations (dotted, reverse dotted) for finger security
- Isolate difficult passages and practice in groups of four notes
- Record yourself at tempo to check for evenness and clarity
- Practice D harmonic minor scale daily at increasing speeds
- Use a metronome consistently; don't practice faster than you can play cleanly
- Work on breath control - plan strategic breathing points that don't break phrases