Fantasia No. 2 in D major, TWV 40:27

About This Piece

Composer: Georg Philipp Telemann (1681-1767)

Difficulty: Advanced

Notes Used: Full chromatic range from D4 to A6

Key: D major (2 sharps: F#, C#)

Movements: I. Largo - II. Spirituoso - III. Allegro

I. Largo - Noble Opening

Majestic D major with rich harmonic color. Tempo: ♩ = 45-50

Rich secondary dominants and borrowed harmonies.

II. Spirituoso - Lively and Spirited

Energetic eighth-note motion with dance character. Tempo: ♩ = 100-108

Brilliant arpeggio patterns imitating brass.

III. Allegro - Virtuosic Finale

Continuous sixteenth notes demanding flawless technique. Tempo: ♩ = 116-126

Climactic passage with altissimo flourishes.

Technical Exercises

Three octaves with perfect intonation.

Practice crisp articulation at speed.

Ornamentation Guide

Performance Practice

D major's traditional association with celebration and festivity should inform your interpretation. This is the brightest of Telemann's Fantasias, with trumpet-like brilliance throughout. Articulation should be crisp and clear, especially in fast movements. The Spirituoso movement combines elegance with energy - maintain rhythmic vitality without rushing. The Allegro demands absolute technical security; practice slowly with metronome until muscle memory is established.

Performance Goal: Project D major brilliance and festive character. Your tone should be clear and focused, especially in the altissimo register. Technical passages must be flawless - this is showpiece repertoire that demonstrates complete mastery of the instrument. Memorization strongly recommended for maximum expressive freedom.

Practice Strategy