Harmonious Blacksmith for Classical Ukulele
In this video performance, check out Jeff Peterson’s arrangement of G.F. Handel’s The Harmonious Blacksmith for classical ukulele.
Originally written for the keyboard, The Harmonious Blacksmith was a set of theme and variations closing out Handel’s fifth Suite in E Major (HWV 430). In typical French Baroque suite form, the suite consists first of a Prelude, Allemande, and Courante. The “Air and Variations” includes the stately theme followed by five variations. Each variation uses divisions, subdividing longer notes into faster notes until a rousing finale with thirty-second notes in both hands.
Performance Notes
This renowned Baroque melody by G. F. Händel presents a substantial challenge for both hands, featuring flowing eighth-note melodies set against sustained bass notes. The piece is in 2/4 time, with two quarter notes per measure. In the right hand, the thumb primarily handles the bass notes, which move across the lowest three strings, but the index finger also takes on bass notes in measures 7, 9, 10, 12, and 17. This offers a valuable opportunity to practice moving the right-hand fingers across the strings in various combinations.
The goal is to achieve a consistent tone regardless of which finger is used. I often recommend isolating short sections of a piece and turning them into focused studies, and this piece offers plenty of excellent examples. For instance, try working on measure 15. Start by removing the notes from the left hand and play only the open strings to concentrate on the right-hand string crossings. Notice how the alternation between the middle and index fingers continues even as the string crossing reverses direction. This can be challenging, so take it slow at first. Once you’re comfortable with the right-hand part, you can reintroduce the left-hand fingerings.
Graded Repertoire for Classical Ukulele: Volume 2
The Harmonious Blacksmith by Händel comes from our book Graded Repertoire for Classical Ukulele: Volume 2. The book has around 50 pieces of classical masterpieces carefully arranged for low-G ukulele in a progressive order. Starting with simple famous melodies like Bach’s Minuet in C, you progress step-by-step all the way through to classical favorites such as Fauré’s Pavane and Leyenda by Issac Albéniz.
Pick up your copy of Graded Repertoire for Classical Ukulele: Volume 2 here.
Thank you for the performance of Handel’s “The Harmonious Blacksmith”; well done.
In the video of that performance, I noticed you use a left-leg support. Please let us know where you acquired it. If, instead, you made it, please describe how you did that and how you fasten the device to your instrument.
Perhaps you could discuss ukulele supports in a future post on “Ukulele Corner”.
Hi Jay, That ukulele support is homemade. It uses small suction cups to attach to the bottom of the instrument. You can find the Neck Up Mini and other brands that sell similar supports commercially. A foot stool or a strap are also good tools to use.