Composer

:

Giuseppe Tartini

Genre

:

Chamber

Style

:

Chamber Music

Publication Date

:

1745

Giuseppe Tartini's 'Sonatas (12) for violin & continuo, Op. 2' is a collection of twelve sonatas for violin and continuo, composed in 1734. The collection was premiered in Padua, Italy, in the same year. The sonatas are divided into four groups of three, each group consisting of a slow sonata, a fast sonata, and a dance sonata. The first group is in the keys of G minor, D major, and A major, while the second group is in B-flat major, E minor, and F major. The third group is in C major, G major, and D minor, and the fourth group is in A minor, E major, and B minor. The slow sonatas are characterized by their lyrical melodies and expressive harmonies, while the fast sonatas are marked by their virtuosic passages and technical demands. The dance sonatas are lively and rhythmic, with dance forms such as the gavotte, minuet, and sarabande. Tartini's use of the continuo, which consists of a harpsichord and a cello, adds depth and richness to the sonatas. The harpsichord provides a harmonic foundation and fills in the harmonies, while the cello adds a bass line and reinforces the rhythm. Overall, Tartini's 'Sonatas (12) for violin & continuo, Op. 2' is a significant contribution to the Baroque repertoire for violin and continuo. The collection showcases Tartini's mastery of melody, harmony, and virtuosity, and remains a popular choice for violinists today.

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