Recorder Sonata in C Major, Op.3 No.1

Master English Baroque sonata style
Develop bright C Major character
Execute clear melodic lines
Perfect English elegance and clarity

About This Piece

Composer: John Loeillet of London (1680-1730)

Difficulty: Late Intermediate

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

Key: C Major

Movements: I. Vivace - II. Largo - III. Gavotte (Allegro) - IV. Giga (Allegro)

Movement I - Vivace

English-style bright opening with clear tonal structure.

Movement II - Largo

Sustained melodic beauty with English lyricism.

Movement III - Gavotte

French dance with characteristic upbeat and clear phrases.

Movement IV - Giga

Spirited finale in compound meter.

Performance Practice Notes

English style: Clear, bright, elegant; less ornamentation than French
Articulation: Clean, precise tonguing; showcase clarity
Tempo: Vivace = ♩ = 130, Largo = ♩ = 50, Gavotte = ♩ = 110, Giga = ♩. = 70

Historical Context

John Loeillet of London (cousin of Jean Baptiste Loeillet of Ghent) established himself as a leading composer and oboist in London. His Op.3 sonatas represent English Baroque style - clearer, brighter, with less ornamentation than French or German music. Working in Handel's London, Loeillet absorbed both Italian and English influences, creating accessible, elegant chamber music for the growing amateur market.

Performance Goal: Project English clarity and brightness. Play with clean articulation and elegant phrasing. This sonata represents English Baroque style at its best - accessible yet sophisticated.