composed by Handel
Chaconne in G major, HWV 435 is one of the most well-known pieces for keyboard composed by George Frideric Handel (1685–1759). After a decorative main theme, it is followed by 21 variations that are simple, yet each has its own unique charm. From Variation 9 to Variation 16, the key changes to G minor, and the melodies in this section are so beautiful that string players may feel inspired to play them. In Variation 16, the key returns to G major, bringing a feeling of relief. The music then gradually becomes more lively and ends in a bright, festive way.
Because this piece also works well for string instruments, we arranged it as a duet for violin and viola. There is already an existing version for this combination by the famous violinist Mária Vermes (1923–2018), published by Edition Musica Budapest. Her arrangement mostly stays close to the original, but she made some changes—for example, turning rising phrases into falling ones.
Our arrangement stays as true to the original as possible, while also making it easier to play. min.
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- Violin & Viola Duet
