Recorder Sonata in F major, HWV 369 - Complete (Extremely Virtuosic)
- Master one of the most technically demanding works in the repertoire
- Execute rapid passages with absolute clarity
- Develop F major's pastoral warmth at virtuosic tempo
- Perfect altissimo technique under extreme technical demands
About This Piece
Composer: George Frideric Handel (1685-1759)
Difficulty: Advanced (Extremely Virtuosic)
Key: F major (1 flat: Bb)
Movements: I. Larghetto - II. Allegro - III. Alla siciliana - IV. Allegro
Opus: Op. 1 No. 11
Note: This is the most technically demanding of Handel's recorder sonatas!
I. Larghetto - Expressive Opening
Lyrical opening requiring rich ornamentation. Tempo: ♩ = 48-54
II. Allegro - Extremely Virtuosic!
This movement is notorious for its extreme technical demands! Tempo: ♩ = 126-144
Continuous sixteenth notes requiring absolute evenness and clarity.
Rapid passage work extending into altissimo register.
III. Alla siciliana - Gentle Interlude
Lilting Siciliana provides welcome relief after virtuosic Allegro. Tempo: ♩. = 58-66
IV. Allegro - Brilliant Finale
Return to extreme technical demands. Tempo: ♩ = 116-132
Technical Exercises for This Sonata
Build speed gradually - this sonata demands rapid scale work.
Practice continuous sixteenth notes to build stamina.
Secure high notes at speed.
Performance Practice
This sonata is legendary among recorder players for its extreme technical demands. The second movement Allegro is one of the most difficult movements in the entire Baroque recorder repertoire, featuring continuous rapid sixteenth notes, wide leaps, and extensive use of the altissimo register. Only attempt this sonata when you have complete technical security.
Critical considerations:
- Tempo: Start slower than tempo and build gradually over weeks/months
- Breathing: Mark breath points carefully; quick catch breaths essential
- Fingering: Use simplified fingerings in altissimo if needed for speed
- Stamina: Build endurance through regular practice of complete movements
- Mental focus: This sonata demands intense concentration
Breathing Strategies (Critical for This Sonata!)
- Allegro movements: Pre-plan every breath - mark in score
- Quick catch breaths: Practice rapid breathing between phrases
- Circular breathing: Consider learning for longest passages
- Oxygen management: Stay relaxed; tension increases oxygen consumption
Performance Goal: This sonata represents the absolute pinnacle of Baroque recorder virtuosity. Your performance must demonstrate flawless technical mastery, absolute clarity in rapid passages, secure altissimo under pressure, and stamina to maintain brilliance throughout. This is competition repertoire, graduate recital centerpiece, and professional showpiece. Only perform publicly when you have complete mastery - this work's reputation precedes it!
Practice Strategy
- CRITICAL: Practice Allegro movements at 50% tempo initially
- Use metronome and increase tempo by only 4-8 BPM per week
- Practice difficult passages in isolation until automatic
- Record yourself frequently - check for evenness and clarity
- Study recordings by virtuoso players: Michala Petri, Maurice Steger, Dan Laurin
- Build finger strength and flexibility with daily technical exercises
- Practice complete run-throughs regularly to build stamina
- Consider this your "Everest" - reaching the summit requires dedication!
Historical Note
This sonata's extreme difficulty has led some scholars to question whether it was actually intended for recorder, suggesting it might have been for flute or violin. However, it appears in early publications as a recorder sonata, and many virtuoso recorder players perform it today. Conquering this work is a rite of passage for advanced recorder players!