Chaconne for the Princess
Leclair and Handel in the Service of Anne,
Princess of Orange
Královská obora 20, Prague 7
Programme
Händel, Leclair
Georg Friedrich Händel (1685–1759)
Chaconne in A major
Suite in G minor, HWV 432
Jean-Marie Leclair (1697–1764)
Sonata in E minor
Sonata in G major
Georg Friedrich Händel / Michel Blavet (1700–1768)
Gavotte „The Harmonious Blacksmith“
Anonymous
Princess Royal
Artists
Annotation
It was a rare opportunity indeed to be able to learn to play the harpsichord under George Frideric Handel himself. Among the lucky few was the talented Princess Anne of Hanover (later Princess of Orange-Nassau, daughter of King George II of Great Britain), who studied with Handel for 11 years. Handel undoubtedly acquitted himself extremely well, as she became an excellent harpsichordist. Even Jean-Marie Leclair admired Her Majesty for “the affection Your Royal Highness entertains for truly beautiful music, and your profound knowledge of the rules of this art”.
Both composers were inspired by Anne’s personality and composed and dedicated works to her that continue to appeal to contemporary performers. The charm of Rococo melodies and refined virtuosity will be presented at the Summer Festivities of Early Music by two leading artists – Jana Semerádová and Erich Traxler. Their Chaconne for the Princess in the Baroque Hall of Šlechtovka will delight even the most demanding listeners!
Venue
Královská obora 20, Prague 7
Show on mapPartners of the concert
In collaboration with the Österreichisches Kulturforum Prag.
