Concerto for 2 Flutes in C major, RV533

A concerto from the Baroque period is usually in three movements: fast, slow, fast. The two flutes are the soloists, set against a small group of strings and a continuo, which is a keyboard and low strings that provide the harmonic base.

First movement, fast. The strings begin with a lively, bouncing main theme. The flutes then enter, often in close harmony, moving in parallel or chasing each other with short phrases. The strings return with the main theme between the solo passages.

Second movement, slow. The mood softens, and the flutes sing a graceful, gentle duet over quiet, steady accompaniment. It is short and calm.

Third movement, fast. The finale picks up the pace with a light, dance-like feel. Listen for quick runs of notes and playful echoes between the two soloists, which show off the players' agility.

The pleasure of the piece is in hearing two similar voices that weave together, split apart and meet again.

Antonio Vivaldi, a Venetian priest and violinist, wrote hundreds of concertos, many for the young women musicians of the Ospedale della Pietà in Venice, where he taught. He wrote for many solo instruments, including the flute, and he also composed a number of works for two soloists. This concerto for two flutes is catalogued as RV 533 in the standard list of his works. The date of its composition is not known with certainty. Concertos for two matching soloists give players a chance to show how well they blend, which is why they are often chosen for siblings, colleagues or friends.