mikrokosmos:

Handel – Organ Concerto in Bb Major, op.7 no.1 (1761)

While he is more known for his opera music, Handel has some wonderful orchestra and keyboard works that are full of life and lean on the “humanist” side of the Baroque era [if we are to contrast him with the sacred aura of Bach’s works]. The organ concertos were written to be played like intermezzos during his oratorios and operas. This concerto is unique in that the opening two movements act like a single chaconne, and everything flows without interruption. Later, the chaconne passage returns, giving this work a “four movements in one” feeling. It opens with large chords, a call and response between organ and strings. These chords set up the chaconne in gorgeous ways. First, a simple revision focusing on thirds. Then, with the organ taking the center stage, we get a segment of variations in English division style, the same device he uses in his popular “The Harmonious Blacksmith”. Next the variations take after an earlier passacaglia Handel wrote for his harpsichord suite in g minor. Eventually we transition back into the major, and a little organ cadenza carries us into the second movement which continues the chaconne at a slightly slower pace. Throughout, the soloist and strings are in dialogue, seamlessly weaving together these variations over such a simple chord progression, the work calls to mind Handel’s abilities as an improvisor. Eventually we get a very grandiose restatement of the opening. And just like that, without pause, we go into the slow movement, this time in the minor key. It is more austere than the music from before, and a surprising contrast. The texture is thin, the music is subdued, and we walk in this darkness for a while. But the solemn interruption doesn’t last long, we then shift into a sunny bourrée. It has a kind of childish rhythm to it, like you’re faux marching along in the back yard with friends playing soldier. It’s a charming end to a fun concerto. This one is my favorite of the Handel organ concertos because the opening is full of so much energy, and it’s partially grand but it isn’t pompous. Another work to add to my spring playlist.

Movements:

1. Andante –

2. Andante – 

3. Largo, e piano

4. Bourrée