Composer

:

Johan Helmich Roman

Genre

:

Keyboard

Style

:

Keyboard

Compose Date

:

before 1759

Average_duration

:

10:19

Johan Helmich Roman's Sonata for harpsichord No. 12 in E minor, also known as the "Drottningholm Sonata," was composed in 1744. It premiered in the same year at the Drottningholm Palace in Stockholm, Sweden, where Roman served as the court composer. The sonata is a three-movement work that showcases Roman's mastery of the harpsichord and his ability to blend Italian and French styles. The first movement, marked Allegro, is in binary form and features a lively and virtuosic harpsichord part. The opening theme is introduced by the right hand and is then echoed by the left hand. The second theme is more lyrical and is played by the right hand. The movement is characterized by its use of ornamentation, rapid arpeggios, and frequent changes in dynamics. The second movement, marked Andante, is in ternary form and is more introspective than the first movement. It begins with a simple and melancholic melody played by the right hand. The left hand provides a gentle accompaniment with broken chords. The middle section of the movement features a more complex and ornamented melody played by the right hand. The movement ends with a return to the opening melody, played with added ornamentation. The final movement, marked Allegro, is in binary form and is the most lively and energetic of the three. It features a fast and virtuosic harpsichord part with frequent use of trills and rapid arpeggios. The opening theme is introduced by the right hand and is then echoed by the left hand. The second theme is more playful and is played by the right hand. The movement ends with a virtuosic cadenza played by the right hand. Overall, Roman's Sonata for harpsichord No. 12 in E minor is a masterful work that showcases his skill as a composer and harpsichordist. It combines elements of Italian and French styles to create a unique and engaging work that is still performed and admired today.

More....