Overview
Introduction
This is a minor work by the young Beethoven, sometimes listed in reference books as "Allegro and Minuet for 2 Flutes." There is one distinction associated with this piece -- it was the composer's last from his Bonn period. After he completed it, he left for Vienna where he would write his greatest masterpieces. This duo was written for Beethoven's law-student friend, Degenhart, to whom he also dedicated the work. In a note on the autograph score (possibly written in another hand), the composer declares the piece is a "souvenir" to mark his approaching departure for Vienna.
As its alternate title suggests, the work is divided into two movements. The Allegro con brio is cast in a sort of modified sonata form, lacking a reprise but possessing a development section. The music here is generally light and playful, with attractive themes and nice harmonies, limited of course by the narrow range of the pair of instruments. The second movement is marked Minuetto quasi Allegretto. It is also light and offers some thematic appeal.
Here is yet another work whose publication Beethoven suppressed throughout his life. It is likely that he would have strongly opposed its posthumous appearance, viewing this duo as an early effort meant for a friend, not for the public. Still, the piece is not without modest rewards for the listener.
Parts/Movements
- Allegro con brio
- Minuetto quasi Allegretto
