Recorder Sonata in D minor, Op.3 No.6

Master D minor intensity
Develop siciliano style
Execute dotted rhythms precisely
Perfect pastoral minor mode character

About This Piece

Composer: John Loeillet of London (1680-1730)

Difficulty: Late Intermediate

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

Key: D minor

Movements: I. Andante - II. Presto - III. Siciliana - IV. Allegro

Movement I - Andante

Steady walking tempo with D minor character.

Movement II - Presto

Virtuosic minor mode energy with clear articulation.

Movement III - Siciliana

Lilting 6/8 siciliano with gentle minor mode melancholy.

Movement IV - Allegro

Energetic conclusion balancing minor mode with vitality.

Performance Practice Notes

Siciliana style: ♩. = 55, gentle and lilting; pastoral character
Presto articulation: Clear, light tonguing for rapid passages
D minor: Serious but not overly dramatic in English style
Tempo: Andante = ♩ = 75, Presto = ♩ = 145, Allegro = ♩ = 120

Historical Context

This D minor sonata concludes Loeillet's Op.3 set with sophistication. The inclusion of a Siciliana movement demonstrates Italian influence - this pastoral dance in lilting 6/8 time was a Baroque favorite. Loeillet's treatment combines Sicilian pastoral character with English clarity and French elegance, creating a cosmopolitan style representative of London's international musical culture. This sonata prepares students for the most advanced Baroque repertoire.

Performance Goal: Master the Siciliana style with its characteristic lilting rhythm. Balance D minor intensity with English refinement. Project pastoral beauty in the Siciliana while maintaining energy in fast movements. This completes your study of Loeillet's recorder sonatas.