Sonata in G Major for Flute, Guitar & Cello by Antonio Lotti
Antonio Lotti (c.1667-1740) was an Italian composer of late baroque music. Lotti was born either in 1666 or 1667, in Venice or in Hanover (where his father Matteo was Kapellmeister). After studying with Giovanni Legrenzi, Lotti made his career at St Mark's Basilica in Venice, first as an alto singer, then as assistant to the second organist, then as second organist, then (from 1704) as first organist, and finally (from 1736) as maestro di cappella, a position he held until his death. He also wrote music for, and taught at, the Ospedale degli Incurabili. In 1717 he was given leave to go to Dresden, where a number of his operas were produced. He returned to Venice in 1719 and remained there until his death in 1740.
Lotti wrote in a variety of forms, producing masses, cantatas, madrigals, around thirty operas, and instrumental music. His sacred choral works are often unaccompanied (a cappella). His work is considered a bridge between the established Baroque and emerging Classical styles.
This baroque trio sonata, a long time favorite, was originally written with lute as the continuo instrument. Lute, harpsichord and even baroque guitars often filled this role in such ensembles. You should feel free to embellish the basic guitar part that is here, within reason that is. Various ornaments or melodic fragments are most welcome when playing any continuo part. The flute and cello carry out a vocal like love duet throughout the entire piece with guitar accompanying in the background. This is a most satisfying arrangement for a highly portable ensemble.
Karl Wolff
