Music by Hasse, van Eyck, Vivaldi, Bassano, Lim, Schmelzer, Fujikura, Corelli
Johann Adolf Hasse Sonata in B flat major for recorder
Johann Adolf Hasse, a prominent Italian opera composer of the 18th century, is celebrated for his elegant and ornate musical style. His Sonata for Recorder exemplifies typical baroque characteristics, blending the recorder’s melodic lines with harmonious bass accompaniment, offering a harmonious performance.
Jacob van Eyck Der Fluyten Lust-hof
Jacob van Eyck, a 17th-century Dutch composer, published Der Fluyten Lust-hof, a collection of solo recorder pieces. These works are characterised by short themes developed into varied improvisations, showcasing his inventive musical style.
Antonio Vivaldi Concerto in C minor, RV 441
Antonio Vivaldi’s concerto for recorder and basso continuo showcases three movements: Allegro-Largo-Allegro. It features Vivaldi’s vibrant rhythms, clear structures, and dazzling virtuosity.
Giovanni Bassano Ricercata quarta
Giovanni Bassano’s Ricercata quarta is a 16th-century Italian composition for flute, recorder or other woodwind instruments. It explores improvisational music forms of the baroque era, characterised by its explorative and inventive nature.
Liza Lim The Weaver of Fictions
Australian composer Liza Lim merges diverse cultural elements and traditions to create a unique and experimental sonic world in The Weaver of Fictions. This piece, performed on the Ganassi G alto recorder, explores a variety of recorder techniques and timbres, offering audiences a novel auditory experience through unconventional sound and structure.
Johann Heinrich Schmelzer Sonata Seconda
Johann Heinrich Schmelzer’s late 17th-century violin sonatas highlight his musical style and technical prowess. These compositions are structured with diverse rhythms and complex musical ideas, reflecting the characteristics of the baroque period.
Dai Fujikura Serene
Serene by Japanese composer Dai Fujikura is composed for recorder and consists of three movements. It conveys a serene and tranquil atmosphere through delicate tones and subtle nuances, exploring modern performance techniques alongside peaceful beauty.
Arcangelo Corelli (arr. William Babell) Sonata op. 5, no. 10
This piece by Italian violin sonata composer Arcangelo Corelli, arranged by William Babell for violin and basso continuo, comprises four movements: a lyrical and stately Preludio (Adagio), a lively Allemanda (Allegro), a slow and graceful Sarabanda (Largo), and a fast-paced and energetic Giga (Allegro). Corelli’s music is known for its elegance and balanced phrasing, while Babell’s arrangement emphasizses melodic beauty and polyphonic structure, challenging performers with technical demands.
These works collectively explore the diverse allure of recorder music across different eras and composers, offering audiences a rich tapestry of musical expression and technical virtuosity.
