Handel: Ariodante Overture

Description

FE122                            0201 strings

(Largo);    (Allegro);    (Gavotta)

Ariodante was premiered Covent Garden on 8th. January 1735 when it had a total of 11 performances, with 2 further performances in revival in 1736. At this time, Handel had the services of the French ballerina Marie Sallé at his disposal and incorporated extensive Ballet music into the score of Ariodante, most of which he later used in Alcina.

The rather grand g minor overture is finely crafted with an arresting angular fugue subject. The final movement is a Gavotte (though not designated as such, and indeed not beginning on the third beat of the bar, as traditionally.) Here Handel makes great play with a mis-placed sense of downbeat, adding to the sense of fun. A contrasting section of solo work for the Hautboys and Bassoons only adds more charm to this delightful dance.

Full score                                             £6

Set of parts: wind and strings (43221)  £18

Extra string parts                                 £4

Handel Overtures Series:

Multi-buy option: any 4 scores for £20; any 4 sets of parts £50