6 Recorder Sonatas Op.1 - Sonata No.1 in D minor

Master Galliard's expressive style
Develop Italian-German synthesis
Execute dramatic minor mode
Perfect operatic instrumental writing

About This Piece

Composer: Johann Ernst Galliard (c. 1687-1749)

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. Adagio - II. Allegro - III. Adagio - IV. Allegro

Complete Sonata

Galliard's Op.1 No.1 demonstrates his operatic approach to instrumental music with dramatic D minor character.

Performance Practice Notes

Galliard style: Operatic, dramatic; influenced by Italian opera
Expression: More dramatic than Pepusch; theatrical character

Historical Context

Johann Ernst Galliard was a German composer who worked extensively in London, particularly in opera. His recorder sonatas reflect his operatic background, with more dramatic and theatrical character than Pepusch's academic style. Galliard collaborated with Handel and absorbed Italian operatic influence.

Performance Goal: Project dramatic, operatic character throughout. This sonata represents theatrical Baroque style requiring both technical skill and dramatic expression.