Handel

Handel - Sonatina in G, HWV 582

ABRSM Grade 3 – A1

Handel's Sonatina in G is part of a new series on the ABRSM syllabus designed for youngsters, or elementary players. This series of articles provides a step-by-step (or phrase-by-phrase) approach to learning the piece thoroughly and securely, building a solid foundation for performance in an exam, or if you are... Read >>

Handel - Gavotte in G, HWV 491

ABRSM Grade 3 – A3

A model of symmetry and tightly organised musical structure, Handel’s Gavotte in G gives the player scope for developing sensitivity of touch and articulation in both hands. Resources & links Piano Exam Pieces 2021 & 2021, Grade 3 is available from the ABRSM online shop here. The syllabus upon which these Practising the Piano Online Academy materials are based is © by The Associated Board of the Royal Schools of Music and is reproduced by permission of the copyright owner. The Practising the Piano Online... Read >>

Handel - Toccata in G minor, HWV 586

ABRSM Grade 5 – A3

From the verb toccare (to touch), this Toccata offers vast scope for clarity in the ornamentation, phrasing and subtle articulation. Depending on the player’s choice, it may be played expressively and on the slow side, or faster and sprightlier. Resources & links Piano Exam Pieces 2021 & 2022, Grade 5 is available from the ABRSM online shop here. Click here to view open domain editions for this work (external link). The syllabus upon which these Practising the Piano Online Academy... Read >>

Handel - Capriccio in G minor, HWV 483

This showpiece offers the player plenty of scope for bringing Handel’s design features to life with dynamic shaping and imaginative articulation. Scale patterns work well with a legato touch, whereas the zigzag semiquavers lend themselves to a crisper touch, using rotational movements to make them feel as exhilarating as they need to sound. Preview (please log-in or subscribe to see full video) Resources & links Click here to purchase sheet music from the Trinity College... Read >>

Handel - Allegro in F, HWV 488

ABRSM Grade 4 - A3

This lively courante-style Allegro in F major opens with a descending scale in a rhythm that might form the basis for scale practice in other keys too. As is typical in Baroque music, the performer needs to supply their own dynamic colouring and articulation according to “good taste”. Some of the notes in the quaver patterns might be slurred (to create an accent), others played short. Crotchets may be played legato, or slightly separated. Experiment with adding a crescendo in the ascending sequence at the start of the second half and find a special colour for the arrival in the... Read >>