Sonatinas Op 55, Nos 1-4

“The four sonatinas by Friedrich Kuhlau presented in this edition continue my
work on transcribing the composer’s piano sonatinas for the harp, following the
previously published arrangements of Opus 20.

Written in the early 1820s and originally conceived for piano, these pieces
exemplify the clarity, balance, and refined elegance of the Classical style. Their
transparent structure, graceful melodic writing, and well-shaped harmonic design
make them highly suitable both as pedagogical material and as concert repertoire
of moderate technical demand.

They offer students an ideal opportunity to explore Classical form, phrasing, and
articulation, while providing professional harpists with charming, well-crafted
pieces of genuine musical substance.

In these transcriptions, particular attention has been given to preserving Kuhlau’s
original texture and articulation, while adapting the music to the expressive
possibilities and natural resonance of the harp. Each sonatina presents its own
character and technical focus, encouraging stylistic awareness, musical
imagination, and a sense of clarity and joy.”

-Julia Rovinsky

Sample – Sonatinas op 55 – 1-4

Sample – Sonatina Op 55 No. 1

Sample – Sonatina Op 55 No. 2

Sample – Sonatina Op 55 No. 3

Sample – Sonatina Op 55 No. 4