Description

Throughout his life, Handel consistently revisited the creation of pieces for violin and basso continuo.

The first autograph, HWV 358, was created around 1707, while his final piece for this set of instruments, the Sonata in D major, HWV 371, dates from around 1750.

Besides the 5 sonatas that exist as autographs, there are 4 other sonatas of dubious authenticity that have entered the violin repertoire attributed to Handel, even though they are not actually by him. These sonatas represent efforts by various lesser-known composers to gain recognition by emulating the style of the great master. To conclude this inaugural publication of Handel's Complete Works for Violin and Basso continuo, there are two movements that are not found in any other performing edition: the Allegro, HWV 408, and an Andante, HWV 412.