Description
A G major gavotte in which the right hand sings over a left hand that simply steps along in the bass. The gavotte is a dance of French origin, known for a springing motion that often begins partway into the bar. This one is a short piece from the Aylesford Pieces, placed between the entrée and the toccata.
It is in 4/4, lasts under a minute and contains about 240 notes. The right hand has about twice as many notes as the left, a clear division of roles. Like a gavotte it moves in two-beat units, and the melody includes some small ornamental notes. At just over four notes per second, it can be played without hurry.
It is rated beginner. The left hand moves little, so you can shape the right-hand melody first and then add the left-hand bass while watching the hand colours. To give it the lift of a dance, keep the downbeats light and think in groups of two beats. The range, C2 to B5, fits on a 61-key keyboard.
A collection of keyboard suites by Handel built mainly around dance movements such as allemandes and gavottes, with lively ornamented melodies and Baroque contrapuntal writing. It suits intermediate-to-advanced players who want to explore Baroque stylistic performance.
Browse all songs in Keyboard Suites →Sheet Music
Sheet music provided by Mutopia Project
About the Composer
George Frideric Handel (1685-1759)
George Frideric Handel was a Baroque composer born in Halle, Germany, who later became a naturalized British citizen. Celebrated for the oratorio Messiah and his Italian-style operas, he also composed many keyboard suites and sonatas. Often mentioned alongside his contemporary Bach, his music is marked by accessible melody and stately grandeur. This site includes suite movements, minuets, and pieces from the Aylesford Pieces.
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