Carl Reinecke

Weihnachts-Sonatine op. 251, No. 3

The Weihnacht-Sonatine ('Christmas Sonatina') of Carl Reinecke is a charming piece in three distinct sections, perfect for use during the Advent and Christmas season. Originally composed for violin and piano, the lowest note of the alto flute being the same as the violin, this seemed like a perfect piece to arrange. The entire piece is a medley of sorts, incorporating sacred music of Bach and Handel with familiar Christmas carols. The first movement/section, in a rolling 6/8 time, seamlessly blends the Christmas Oratorio of Johann Sebastian Bach with 'Silent Night.' In the second movement, the solo line floats over a stately accompaniment to the Christmas Hymn 'Von Himmel hoch da komm' ich her' ('From Heaven Above to Earth I Come'). The final movement sees motives from Handels Messiah oratorio intertwined with the German Christmas carol 'O du fröhliche, o du selige' ('O you joyful, O you blessed'). The work can be performed in its entirety, or also very easily as three separate pieces.