Woodwind Ensemble Flute - Level 4 - Digital Download SKU: A0.813902 Composed by Peter Ilyich Tchaikovsky. Arranged by Regis Bookshar. Christmas,Instructional,Romantic Period,Standards. 9 pages. Regis Bookshar #6612915. Published by Regis Bookshar (A0.813902). Flute Quintet - Advanced/Intermediate - Digital Download. This marvelous arrangement of the Russian Dance (Trepak), from Peter Ilyich Tchaikovsky's extremely popular, The Nutcracker Suite, would be a fabulous addition to any music library and could be performed for concerts and recitals but would be most appropriate during the Holiday season. This selection has been arranged to keep all of the intensity and excitement of the original composition and is suitable for high school and college students but professional musicians would also enjoy playing this selection. Included are a score and a complete set of parts (9 pages). This selection is one of the many arrangements from The Regis Bookshar Trumpet Ensemble's extensive music library which are being made available for the first time.The Nutcracker is an 1892 two-act ballet with a score by Peter Ilyich Tchaikovsky. It has enjoyed enormous popularity since the late 1960's and is performed by countless ballet companies, primarily during the Christmas season, especially in North America. Tchaikovsky's score has become one of his most famous compositions. Some critics have called it astonishingly rich in detailed inspiration and from beginning to end, beautiful, melodious, original and characteristic. The ballet's first complete performance outside Russia took place in England in 1934. The first complete United States performance was on December 24, 1944, by the San Francisco Ballet. It was such an enormous success that the San Francisco Ballet has presented The Nutcracker every Christmas Eve and throughout the winter season, debuting new productions in 1944, 1954, 1967 and 2004. In Salt Lake City, it has been performed every year since 1963. The New York City Ballet gave its first annual performance in 1954. In addition to annual live stagings of the work, many productions have also been televised or released on home video.The Nutcracker continues to be one of Tchaikovsky's most popular compositions and contains some of his most memorable works. Tchaikovsky made a selection of eight of the numbers from the ballet before the ballet's December 1892 premiere, forming The Nutcracker Suite, Op. 71a, and is intended for concert performance. The suite was first performed, under the composer's direction, on March 19, 1892. The suite became instantly popular with almost every number encored at its premiere.Regis Bookshar thought that it would be wonderful if other instrumentalists could also have the opportunity to play some of these wonderful compositions, originally scored for a full orchestra, and has arranged two of the selections, the popular March and the Russian Dance, one of the character dances, based on the traditional Russian and Ukrainian folk dance, Trepak, for a wide variety of instrumental ensembles. So, in addition to this version of the Russian Dance for a Flute Quintet, he has made quite a few other arrangements of this selection for various Quintets and Octets and are readily available. If you should decide to purchase this arrangement of the Russian Dance, I would highly encourage you to also consider purchasing the arrangement of the March as well. Scheduling the March followed by the Russian Dance would be a very satisfying addition to any concert or recital. Please take the time to look for other versions of these compositions. You may find something else that might also suit your needs.I would also encourage you to search for other arrangements by Regis Bookshar, as there are numerous selections in a variety of styles, also available for purchase. You may find something else which might interest you. Please continue to check periodically because new arrangements are being added as often as possible. I'm certain that this wonderful arrangement of the Russian Dance from Tchaikovsky's marvelous holiday favorite, The Nutcracker Suite, will contin.

Woodwind Ensemble Flute - Level 4 - Digital Download SKU: A0.813158 Composed by George Frideric Handel. Arranged by Regis Bookshar. Baroque,Christmas,Instructional,Sacred,Standards. 20 pages. Regis Bookshar #6130471. Published by Regis Bookshar (A0.813158). Flute Quintet - Advanced/Intermediate - Digital Download. This selection, And the Glory of the Lord, from George Frideric Handel's world-famous oratorio, Messiah, would be an excellent addition to any music library. Originally written for a four-part chorus accompanied by a small orchestra, this selection has been arranged for 5 Flutes, by Regis Bookshar, without losing any of the vitality of the original version. I'm certain that this exciting arrangement will entertain both performers and audiences alike for years to come. It is perfect for Christmas concerts and church services, is suitable for high school, college and professional performers and is one of my all-time favorite arrangements. Included are a score and a complete set of parts (20 pages). Handel's original version is written in the key of Concert G but this version is written in the key of Concert F, to make it a little easier for some younger performers. However, this arrangement may still prove to be a challenge for some players. Other versions of this selection, in both the keys of Concert F and the original key of Concert G, are available for a variety of instrumental ensembles. If you are considering having an organist or other keyboard player perform with this selection, I would suggest that you purchase the version in Concert G rather than the one in Concert F. Other selections from Handel's Messiah are also available, as are numerous other arrangements in a variety of styles. I would encourage you to search for other arrangements by Regis Bookshar. You may find something else which might interest you as well. I'm certain that students and audiences will definitely enjoy this arrangement.

Woodwind Ensemble Flute - Level 4 - Digital Download SKU: A0.813176 Composed by George Frideric Handel. Arranged by Regis Bookshar. Baroque,Christmas,Instructional,Sacred,Standards. 20 pages. Regis Bookshar #6130577. Published by Regis Bookshar (A0.813176). Flute Quintet - Advanced/Intermediate - Digital Download. This selection, And the Glory of the Lord, from George Frideric Handel's world-famous oratorio, Messiah, would be an excellent addition to any music library. Originally written for a four-part chorus accompanied by a small orchestra, this selection has been arranged for 5 Flutes, by Regis Bookshar, without losing any of the vitality of the original version. I'm certain that this exciting arrangement will entertain both performers and audiences alike for years to come. It is perfect for Christmas concerts and church services, is suitable for high school, college and professional performers and is one of my all-time favorite arrangements. Included are a score and a complete set of parts (20 pages). Handel's original version is written in the key of Concert G, as is this version, but other versions are also available for a variety of instrumental ensembles, both in the key of Concert G and also in the key of Concert F, to make it a little easier for some younger performers. However, this arrangement may still prove to be a challenge for some players. If you are considering having an organist or other keyboard player perform with this selection, I would suggest that you purchase this version in Concert G rather than the one in Concert F. Other selections from Handel's Messiah are also available, as are numerous other arrangements in a variety of styles. I would encourage you to search for other arrangements by Regis Bookshar. You may find something else which might interest you as well. I'm certain that students and audiences will definitely enjoy this arrangement.

Flute Quintet,Woodwind Ensemble - Level 3 - Digital Download SKU: A0.1393902 Composed by George Frideric Handel. Arranged by Ander. Baroque,Chamber,Christian,Easter. 21 pages. Woods Only, Arrangements #977375. Published by Woods Only, Arrangements (A0.1393902). We present our arrangement of the acclaimed song Hallelujah from Handel’s oratorio “The Messiah�, adapted for Flute Quintet. This sheet music is a faithful reproduction of the original composition, bringing the grandeur of Handel’s work to the chamber music. George Frideric Handel, one of the greatest composers of the Baroque period, composed The Messiah in 1741. The piece, cataloged as HWV 56 in Handel’s works catalog, is known for its emotional depth and musical complexity. The song “Hallelujah� is one of the most recognized in the oratorio, celebrating the resurrection and the final victory over sin and death. This arrangement is perfect for teachers looking to expand their student's didactic repertoire, offering a unique opportunity to explore Baroque music in a chamber context. In addition, it is an excellent choice for groups wishing to present an impactful piece in recitals or concerts. With the arrival of the month of March, Easter is approaching. What better way to celebrate than with the music that encapsulates the joy and hope of this season? This arrangement of Hallelujah is the perfect choice to add a special touch to your Easter celebrations. Purchase our arrangement of Hallelujah and experience the timeless beauty of Handel’s music in a new way. Take the opportunity to own a piece that will surely delight musicians and listeners. Don’t miss the chance to make your performances even more memorable.

Woodwind Ensemble Flute - Level 4 - Digital Download SKU: A0.813140 Composed by George Frideric Handel. Arranged by Regis Bookshar. Baroque,Christmas,Instructional,Sacred,Standards. 32 pages. Regis Bookshar #6117901. Published by Regis Bookshar (A0.813140). Flute Quintet - Advanced/Intermediate - Digital Download. This selection, For Unto Us a Child is Born, from George Frideric Handel's world-famous oratorio, Messiah, would be an excellent addition to any music library. Originally written for a four-part chorus accompanied by a small orchestra, this selection has been arranged for 5 Flutes by Regis Bookshar, without losing any of the vitality of the original version. I'm certain that this exciting arrangement will entertain both performers and audiences alike for years to come. It is perfect for Christmas concerts and church services, is suitable for high school, college and professional performers and is one of my all-time favorite arrangements. Included are a score and a complete set of parts (32 pages). Handel's original version is written in the key of Concert G, as is this version, but other versions are also available for a variety of instrumental ensembles, both in the original key of Concert G and also in the key of Concert F, to make it a little easier for some younger performers. This arrangement will prove to be a challenge for many players, especially during long passages played using one breath. If you are considering having an organist or other keyboard player perform with this selection, I would suggest that you purchase the version in Concert G rather than the one in Concert F. Also available are numerous other arrangements in a variety of styles. I would encourage you to search for other arrangements by Regis Bookshar. You may find something else which might interest you as well. I'm certain that this arrangement will please students and audiences alike.

Woodwind Ensemble Flute - Level 4 - Digital Download SKU: A0.813114 Composed by George Frideric Handel. Arranged by Regis Bookshar. Baroque,Christmas,Easter,Multicultural,Standards,World. 22 pages. Regis Bookshar #6104135. Published by Regis Bookshar (A0.813114). Flute Quintet - Advanced Intermediate - Digital Download. This selection, the world-famous Hallelujah Chorus from George Frideric Handel's great masterpiece, Messiah, has been arranged for 5 Flutes, by Regis Bookshar. I'm certain that this exciting arrangement will entertain both performers and audiences alike for years to come. It is suitable for high school and college students and is perfect for Christmas concerts and church services, especially Easter, but could be performed for any festive occasion. Included are a score and a complete set of parts (22 pages). Handel's original composition is written in the key of Concert D, as is this version, but also available is a version written in Concert Bb, to make it a little easier for some younger performers. Other versions of this selection, in both the keys of Concert Bb and Concert D, are also available for a variety of instrumental ensembles. If you are planning to have an organist or other keyboard player play along with this selection, I would suggest that you purchase this version in Concert D. Please feel free to search for other arrangements in a variety of styles by Regis Bookshar. You may find something else which might interest you as well. I'm certain that students will enjoy playing this arrangement and audiences will love hearing it.

Woodwind Ensemble Flute - Level 4 - Digital Download SKU: A0.813122 Composed by George Frideric Handel. Arranged by Regis Bookshar. Baroque,Christmas,Instructional,Sacred,Standards. 31 pages. Regis Bookshar #6117643. Published by Regis Bookshar (A0.813122). Flute Quintet - Advanced/Intermediate - Digital Download. This selection, For Unto Us a Child is Born, from George Frideric Handel's world-famous oratorio, Messiah, would be an excellent addition to any music library. Originally written for a four-part chorus accompanied by a small orchestra, this selection has been arranged for 5 Flutes by Regis Bookshar, without losing any of the vitality of the original version. I'm certain that this exciting arrangement will entertain both performers and audiences alike for years to come. It is perfect for Christmas concerts and church services, is suitable for high school, college and professional performers and is one of my all-time favorite arrangements. Included are a score and a complete set of parts (31 pages). Handel's original version is written in the key of Concert G. This version is written in the key of Concert F, to make it a little easier for some younger performers. This arrangement will prove to be a challenge for many players, especially during long passages played using one breath. Other versions of this selection, in both the keys of Concert F and the original key of Concert G, are available for a variety of instrumental ensembles. If you are considering having an organist or other keyboard player perform with this selection, I would suggest that you purchase the version in Concert G rather than the one in Concert F. Also available are numerous other arrangements in a variety of styles. I would encourage you to search for other arrangements by Regis Bookshar. You may find something else which might interest you as well. I'm certain that this arrangement will please students and audiences alike.

Woodwind Ensemble Flute - Level 3 - Digital Download SKU: A0.813965 Composed by Franz Xaver Gruber. Arranged by Regis Bookshar. Christmas,Instructional,Multicultural,World. 7 pages. Regis Bookshar #6635849. Published by Regis Bookshar (A0.813965). Flute Quintet - Intermediate - Digital Download. This arrangement of Silent Night, or in German, Stille Nacht, would be a wonderful addition to any music library and could be performed for Christmas concerts, recitals, and, especially, church services. It is equally suitable for junior and senior high school students and even older musicians. Depending on their ability, younger musicians would also enjoy playing this selection. Included are a score and a complete set of parts (7 pages). This selection is one of the many arrangements from The Regis Bookshar Trumpet Ensemble's extensive music library which are being made available for the first time.Silent Night is probably the most popular Christmas carol ever written. It was composed in 1818 by Franz Xaver Gruber to lyrics by Joseph Mohr and was first performed on Christmas Eve at St. Nicholas parish church in Oberndorf, a small village in present-day Austria. A young Catholic priest, Father Joseph Mohr, had written the poem, Stille Nacht, in 1816 and had gone to Oberndorf in 1817. The melody was composed by Franz Xaver Gruber, schoolmaster and organist in the nearby village of Arnsdorf. On Christmas Eve, 1818, Mohr brought the words to Gruber and asked him to compose a melody and guitar accompaniment for that night's mass, after river flooding had possibly damaged the church organ. The church was eventually destroyed by repeated flooding and has since been replaced with the Silent-Night-Chapel.According to Gruber, Karl Mauracher, an organ builder who serviced the instrument at the Oberndorf church, was enamored with the song, and took the composition home with him to the Ziller Valley in Tyrol, Austria. From there, two traveling families of folk singers, the Strassers and the Rainers, included the tune in their shows. The Rainers were already singing it around Christmas, 1819, and once performed it for an audience that included Franz I of Austria and Alexander I of Russia. They also gave the first performance of the song in the United States in New York City in 1839. By the 1840's, the song was well known and was reported to be a favorite of Frederick William IV of Prussia. During this period, the melody changed slightly to become the version that is commonly heard today. The version of the melody that is generally used today is a slow, meditative lullaby, or pastoral, differing slightly from Gruber's original which has a moderate tempo. The song has been translated into about 140 languages and has been recorded by many singers across many music genres. The version sung by Bing Crosby in 1935, has sold over 10 million copies as a single.In this arrangement of Silent Night, Regis Bookshar has kept the basic form of this familiar Christmas carol, but has also included a descant during the third verse. Also, in addition to this version for a Flute Quintet, there are other arrangements of Silent Night available for a variety of instrumental ensembles. There are Quintets and Octets readily available for purchase. Please take the time to look for other versions of this composition. You may find something else that might also suit your needs.I would also encourage you to search for other arrangements by Regis Bookshar, as well, as there are numerous arrangements in a wide variety of styles, also available for purchase. You may find something else which might interest you. Please continue to check periodically because new arrangements are being added as often as possible. I'm certain that this wonderful arrangement of Silent Night will continue to entertain both performers and audiences alike for years to come.

Woodwind Ensemble,Woodwind Quintet Flute - Level 2 - Digital Download SKU: A0.1129691 Composed by Ludwig van Beethoven. Arranged by Ander. Classical,Instructional,March,Opera,Romantic Period. 15 pages. Woods Only, Arrangements #730102. Published by Woods Only, Arrangements (A0.1129691). This arrangement adapted for flute quintet was written keeping the characteristics of the original work, that is, inspiring and significant to the already known choral symphony by Beethoven, indicated to be performed by young music students, who want to enter the symphonic music, moreover, it can also be used by professional musicians, for recitals, repertoire, academic presentations and didactic material. As much as it is a funeral march, it is well suited for any musical performance occasion. The transcription is faithful to the structure, with only one change in key, so that it is comfortable for all instruments in the formation, thus maintaining the essence of the striking melody, as well as using it for ensemble practice among musicians of different traditions. Beethoven's Ninth Symphony Op. 125 incorporates part of the poem An die Freude (To Joy), a hymn written by Friedrich Schiller, with the text sung by soloists and a choir in its last movement. It was the first example of a major composer using the human voice as prominently as the instruments in a symphony, thus creating a far-reaching work that set the tone for the symphonic form that was to be adopted by Romantic composers. This is the last complete symphony composed by Ludwig van Beethoven. The choral symphony, better known as the Ninth Symphony or The Ninth, is one of the best known works in the Western repertoire, considered both an icon and predecessor of Romantic music, and one of Beethoven's great masterpieces, where it was first performed on May 7, 1824, the same year it was completed, at the Kärntnertortheater in Vienna, Austria. The conductor was Michael Umlauf, the theater's music director, and Beethoven - dissuaded from conducting by the advanced stage of his deafness - was given a special place on the stage next to the conductor. It was later rearranged by Herbert von Karajan to become the anthem of the European Union in 1972, the national anthem of Rhodesia from 1974 until 1979, Rise, O Voices of Rhodesia, used the tune Ode to Joy..

Woodwind Ensemble,Woodwind Quintet Flute - Level 3 - Digital Download SKU: A0.1508239 By Francesco Leone. By George Frideric Handel. Arranged by Francesco Leone. Baroque. 22 pages. Glissato Edizioni Musicali #1083538. Published by Glissato Edizioni Musicali (A0.1508239). Experience the majestic and uplifting Halleluia chorus from George Frideric Handel's oratorio Messiah, beautifully arranged for Flute Quartet by Francesco Leone. This arrangement, designed for intermediate-level musicians, brings the grandeur and joy of Handel's masterpiece to your flute ensemble.Includes:Full ScoreSet of Parts (4):C Flute 1C Flute 2C Flute 3C Flute 4Features:Majestic and Uplifting: Francesco Leone's arrangement retains the powerful and celebratory nature of Handel's original composition, ensuring an engaging and spirited performance.Intermediate Level: This arrangement is tailored for intermediate-level flutists, providing a balanced challenge that is both rewarding and accessible.Comprehensive Package: Includes a full score and individual parts for each member of the quartet, facilitating a smooth rehearsal and performance process.Why Choose This Arrangement? This transcription is perfect for flute quartets looking to explore the rich traditions of Baroque music and add a piece of sacred choral literature to their repertoire. Whether for concerts, recitals, or special events, Halleluia from Messiah arranged by Francesco Leone offers a captivating and uplifting musical experience.Bring the grand and exultant sounds of George Frideric Handel's Halleluia chorus to your flute quartet and inspire your audience with this timeless masterpiece. Get your copy today and let Handel's music elevate your next performance!

Woodwind Ensemble Flute - Level 4 - Digital Download SKU: A0.1083720 Composed by Peter Ilyich Tchaikovsky. Arranged by Regis Bookshar. Classical,Contest,Festival,Instructional,Multicultural,Romantic Period,World. 16 pages. Regis Bookshar #687930. Published by Regis Bookshar (A0.1083720). Coronation March, TH 50, CW 47 by Peter Ilyich Tchaikovsky. Flute Quintet - Advanced/Intermediate - Digital Download. This marvelous arrangement of Peter Tchaikovsky's Coronation March, sometimes called Festival March or Festival Coronation March, would be a fabulous addition to any music library and could be performed for concerts, recitals and other festive occasions. This arrangement keeps all of the intensity and excitement of the original composition and is suitable for high school and college students. Professional musicians would also enjoy playing this selection. Included are a score and a complete set of parts (16 pages). This selection is one of the many arrangements from The Regis Bookshar Trumpet Ensemble's extensive music library which are being made available to the public for the first time. The Coronation March was ordered by the city of Moscow for the coronation of Tsar Alexander III in 1883. It was written during March of 1883 and was performed for the first time on June 4, 1883 in Sokolniky Park in Moscow, conducted by Sergei Taneyev. The music then included excerpts of the anthem, God Save the Tsar. The American premiere was on May 5, 1891, for the opening concert of Carnegie Hall in New York City, conducted by Tchaikovsky himself. During the Soviet Era, Russian performances and recordings of the music were revised to omit the excerpts from the Czarist national anthem, replacing it with thematic material used earlier in the march, due to an official Soviet ban on the anthem. Starting with Dmitri Medvedev's inauguration in 2008, an abbreviated version of this piece is played during the Russian presidential inauguration accompanying the entrance of the incoming president, and ends well before the playing in this piece of the Tsarist anthem God Save the Tsar. Unlike Tchaikovsky's other major compositions, the Coronation March does not have an opus number. It has been given alternative catalogue designations TH 50 and CW 47. Tchaikovsky's Coronation March was originally scored for a full orchestra and written in the key of D Major. Regis Bookshar has now created an abbreviated version, written in Db Major, and has arranged it for a Flute Quintet. In addition to this arrangement of Tchaikovsky's Coronation March for a Flute Quintet, other arrangements of this festive composition for various instrumental ensembles are also available. Please feel free to search for other arrangements by Regis Bookshar as there are many more arrangements in a variety of styles, also available for purchase. You may find something else which might interest you as well, and please continue to check periodically because new arrangements are being added as often as possible. I'm certain that this wonderful arrangement of Tchaikovsky's Coronation March will continue to entertain both audiences and performers alike for years to come.

Flute Quintet,Woodwind Ensemble Alto Flute,Piccolo - Level 2 - Digital Download SKU: A0.1310256 By Alessia Cara. By Lin-Manuel Miranda. Arranged by Sean Sullivan. 21st Century,Film/TV. 12 pages. Sean Sullivan #899369. Published by Sean Sullivan (A0.1310256). Join Moana on her journey to find the answers to who she truly is with this beautiful clarinet quintet arrangement of How Far I'll Go from Disney's Moana. The soaring melodies and driving rhythms carry the listener through the ups and downs of Moana's quest, while the unique timbres of the clarinet quintet create a lush and harmonious soundscape. This arrangement is perfect for any fan of Moana or anyone looking to add a touch of Disney magic to their next performance.

Flute Quintet,Woodwind Ensemble Alto Flute - Level 3 - Digital Download SKU: A0.1405751 By Elton John. By Bernie Taupin and Elton John. Arranged by Sean Sullivan. 20th Century,Chamber,Contemporary,Pop,Rock. 17 pages. Sean Sullivan #988817. Published by Sean Sullivan (A0.1405751). Step into the magical world of Elton John with our sheet music arranged for flute quintet featuring the timeless classic Goodbye Yellow Brick Road. Transport your audience to a nostalgic era of music with this iconic song, expertly adapted for flute quintet. Perfect for flute enthusiasts of all levels, this arrangement will challenge and delight players with its rich harmonies and melodic lines. Whether you're a fan of Elton John or simply looking to expand your flute repertoire, this sheet music is a must-have for your collection. Elevate your ensemble's performance with the enchanting sound of Goodbye Yellow Brick Road beautifully arranged for flute quintet. Order your sheet music today and embark on a musical journey that will captivate and inspire both performers and listeners alike.

Flute Quintet,Woodwind Ensemble Alto Flute,Piccolo - Level 3 - Digital Download SKU: A0.1333705 By Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart. By Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart. Arranged by Sean Sullivan. Classical,Religious,Sacred. 12 pages. Sean Sullivan #920002. Published by Sean Sullivan (A0.1333705). Introducing the exquisite musical experience of Mozart's Dies Irae arranged for flute quintet. This unique rendition brings the brilliance of Mozart to life, offering an unforgettable experience filled with intrigue, beauty, and exceptional musical mastery. The haunting melody takes on a new level of intensity and elegance. This masterpiece, crafted specifically for flute quintet, showcases the versatility and lush harmonies of the composition. Each flute intricately weaves its part into a harmonious tapestry of rich sonority and delicate nuances. Whether you are a classical music enthusiast or simply seeking mesmerizing melodies, this arrangement is a must-have addition to your repertoire. It also presents a captivating opportunity for flutists and ensembles to showcase their exceptional talent and leave audiences astounded. Don't miss out on this unparalleled experience. Immerse your audience in the captivating world of Mozart's Dies Irae arranged for flute quintet and elevate your musical journey to new heights.

Woodwind Ensemble,Woodwind Quintet Flute - Level 3 - Digital Download SKU: A0.1129489 Composed by Ludwig van Beethoven. Arranged by Ander. Christmas,Classical,Instructional,March,Romantic Period. 16 pages. Woods Only, Arrangements #729936. Published by Woods Only, Arrangements (A0.1129489). This arrangement adapted for flute quintet was designed to make its listeners weep with emotion, because the adaptation preserves the original essence of the work, keeping its integrity faithful to what Beethoven wanted to transmit, with only a slight change in tone and addition of harmonic resources in the structure of the arrangement. Even though it is a funeral march, it is well suited for any musical performance occasion, being intended for beginner students who want to immerse themselves in the universe of romantic music, and nothing better than starting with the transitional composer of this period, which also does not prevent professional teachers from using it for recitals, academic presentations or didactic material in their classes as an ensemble practice. Ludwig van Beethoven's Piano Sonata No. 14 in C minor sharp, Op. 27, No. 2, is one of his most popular compositions and was an audience favorite even in his day. Written when Beethoven was 31, the Moonlight Sonata (Mondscheinsonate in German) was composed after he finished some commissioned works, but there is no evidence that he was hired to write this work. It did not receive its nickname until 1832, five years after Beethoven's death. It was the critic Ludwig Rellstab who compared the music to a moonlighting on Lake Lucerne. This comparison was adopted as a nickname for the work. Called Quasi una fantasia by the author - like its companion Op. 27, No. 1 - the piece was completed in 1801 and dedicated the following year to one of the composer's pupils. Beethoven chose to open the sonata with a slow, hypnotic arpeggio movement, the best known of the entire work. The dotted rhythm of its minimal melody evokes the tradition of 'Trauermusik' (funeral music).