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Händel, Georg Friedrich : Suite Courante HWV 428

Work Overview

Music ID : 30420
Instrumentation:Piano Solo 
Genre:courante
Total Playing Time:1 min 50 sec
Copyright:Public Domain

Commentary (1)

Author : Ooi, Kazurou

Last Updated: July 15, 2024
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Note: This article is automatically translated from the original Japanese text. The author of the original work did not supervise this translation.

The key to this Courante is to incorporate clear dynamic contrasts. Both the first and second halves follow a progression of D minor → F major → D minor.

In contrast to the austere sound of D minor, F major brings a sense of calm. Try playing the F major sections gently, at a p (piano) dynamic. There is another logical reason for these dynamic changes based on key shifts. This is because the notes used in the F major sections are often in a lower register, whereas the D minor sections frequently reach the highest note of this Courante, A, or feature ascending sequences that build tension.

For example, in the second half, it begins in D minor, proceeds through a harmonic sequence, and then settles into F major. From there, it gradually ascends, reaching G once, and then triplets lead to the highest note, A. In F major, change the color, settle down, and reduce the tension. Performers should grasp this 'mountain shape' and determine appropriate dynamics accordingly.

Writer: Ooi, Kazurou

Sheet Music

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