Quantz, J. - Sonata in D Major, Mvt. 2 (Violin, Viola and Cello)

This selection is the lyrical Movement 2 of a Sonata in D Major by the prolific German Baroque composer and flutist Johann Joachim Quantz (1697–1773). Known historically as the flute instructor to Frederick the Great and the author of the landmark performance treatise Versuch einer Anweisung die Flöte traversiere zu spielen ("On Playing the Flute"), Quantz’s music elegantly bridges late Baroque counterpoint and the lighter, highly expressive Galant style.  

Originally written as a trio sonata or solo sonata with continuo, this specific edition on your screen is an arrangement beautifully adapted into a standard string trio for Violin, Viola, and Cello.

Pedagogical Information

• Difficulty Level: Late Beginner to Early Intermediate (Level 2).  

   

• Key Skills Addressed:

  • Introduction to Shifting: Ideal for developing introductory third position placement and accuracy in a lyrical, slow context.

  • Expressive Bowing: The lyrical, sustained nature of the melody teaches students bow distribution, smooth string crossings, and seamless legato phrasing.

  • Ensemble Listening: As a chamber arrangement with independent lines, it challenges students to balance their voices, match styles, and listen carefully to the interplay between the violin melody, the inner viola voice, and the cello's bass line.