Recorder Concerto in C minor, RV 441 - Movement 2 (Largo)

Master expressive minor mode concerto style
Develop dramatic character in C minor
Execute chromatic ornamentation
Perfect Vivaldian pathos and expression

About This Piece

Composer: Antonio Vivaldi (1678-1741)

Difficulty: Late Intermediate

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

Key: C minor (modulating to Eb Major)

Movement: II. Largo

Fingering Review

Complete Largo Movement

Vivaldi's dramatic minor mode opening with pathetic character.

Relief through modulation to Eb Major with lyrical character.

Dramatic return to C minor with expressive chromatic passages.

Performance Practice Notes

Pathetic character: C minor requires dramatic, expressive playing
Flat fingerings: Master Eb, Ab, Bb for smooth execution
Ornamentation: Add chromatic passing tones and expressive appoggiaturas
Tempo: ♩ = 45, very slow; allow time for dramatic expression

Historical Context

Vivaldi's C minor Concerto, RV 441, exemplifies the Baroque doctrine of affections in minor mode. C minor was associated with deep pathos and dramatic expression. This Largo movement demonstrates Vivaldi's operatic sensibility - it's essentially a tragic aria for recorder. The exploration of the relative major (Eb) provides momentary relief before returning to the darker minor mode. Vivaldi wrote this concerto for the talented students at the Ospedale della Pietà, challenging them with both technical demands and interpretive depth.

Performance Goal: Convey the dramatic pathos of C minor throughout this Largo. Use rich ornamentation and expressive dynamics to heighten the emotional content. Master the flat fingerings so they flow naturally in this expressive context. This movement demonstrates advanced interpretive maturity in minor mode playing.