George Frederick Handel composed violin sonatas from his youth (Sonata in G Major, HWV 358) into old age (Sonata in D Major, HWV 371), over a 40 year timespan which took him from Rome to London. Among the nine violin sonatas attributed to Handel, a few are the works of other unknown composers, mislabeled by greedy publishers.
Among the authentic works is the Sonata No. 3 in A Major, HWV 361, composed circa 1726. With an infectious sense of melody, it is music which unfolds as a vibrant conversation among equal voices. The majestic opening movement is followed by a joyful Allegro which erupts with the imitative counterpoint of a fugato. Filled with operatic atmosphere, a brief, melancholy Adagio leads directly to the sunny final movement, which resembles a gigue.
This 2011 recording by Ensemble Vintage Köln features violinist Ariadne Daskalakis with Rainer Zipperling (viola de gamba) and Gerald Hambitzer (harpsichord):
I. Andante:
II. Allegro:
III. Adagio:
IV. Allegro:
Recordings
- Handel: Violin Sonata No. 3 in A Major, Op. 1, No. 3, HWV 361, Ariadne Daskalakis, Ensemble Vintage Köln Naxos