Six Canonic Sonatas for two cellos, TWV 40: 118-123; Georg Philipp Telemann

Six Canonic Sonatas for two cellos, TWV 40: 118-123 by Georg Philipp Telemann

Edited by Janos Starker. Published by International.

Georg Philipp Telemann (1681-1767) was a prominent German composer of the Baroque era. He was one of the most prolific composers in history, with over 3,000 works to his name. His music provides an important link between the Baroque and Classical periods and was a major influence to transitional composers such as C.P.E. Bach. Many of his works reflect his desire to create pedagogical, approachable works–a quality that makes them popular with learning players today.

Among Telemann’s most delightful works for amateur players are his Six Canonic Sonatas, TWV 40: 118-123 (1738) for two players. Each movement of each sonata is a two-part canon where each musician plays identical music, one measure apart. Though Telemann originally wrote them for two flutes, they are easily played by other instruments. This version, edited by the great Janos Starker, is for two cellos. Two performance parts included. Intermediate-advanced level, Grade 4.