Minuet by Krieger for Classical Ukulele

Minuet by Krieger for Classical Ukulele

In this video Jeff performs his low-G arrangement of Minuet by Krieger for classical ukulele. Johann Krieger (1651 – 1735) was a Baroque organist and composer. His keyboard works were important especially because of his ability to weave intricate counterpoint in his compositions. Handel admired Krieger’s work and studied his keyboard compositions.

Performance Notes

This Baroque-era minuet presents an engaging challenge by shifting the emphasis from the melody to the bass, creating two distinct overlapping parts. The key to mastering this piece is to sustain the long notes in one part while allowing the quarter and eighth notes to move independently in the other. To achieve this, carefully study the left-hand fingerings to facilitate smooth transitions between the parts. It’s beneficial to practice each part separately at first. The up-stem notes represent the melody, while the down-stem notes indicate the bass.

Pay close attention to the measures that incorporate dotted quarter note rhythms. Be sure to count each beat carefully, subdividing the eighth notes to maintain accuracy. The piece is in the key of E minor, with one sharp in the key signature, raising all F notes to F#. Additionally, watch for the D# accidentals scattered throughout the piece.

A great technical exercise to improve your counterpoint skills is to hold down a bass note with one finger while using the other fingers to play a scale on the higher strings. Measure 7 is an excellent example of this technique. Try holding the 3rd finger down on the 4th fret (note B) on the 4th string, while omitting the 2nd fret note, and practice playing the scale above it, following the indicated left-hand fingerings. This exercise will help you develop independence and fluidity in both hands.