Keyboard suite in D minor (HWV 437)
The Keyboard suite in D minor (HWV 437) is a suite of pieces for keyboard composed by George Frideric Handel. It is one of the suites published in 1720 as Suites de Pièces pour Clavecin (Suites of Pieces for Harpsichord), commonly known as Handel's first set of harpsichord suites.
The suite consists of the following movements:
- Prélude
- Allemande
- Courante
- Sarabande
- Gigue
The Sarabande is arguably the most famous movement, and is often extracted and performed separately. It has been featured in numerous films and television programs, contributing to its widespread recognition. Its melancholic melody and stately rhythm have made it a popular piece for arrangements across various instruments.
While Handel published the suite for harpsichord, the pieces can also be played on other keyboard instruments such as the piano. The popularity of the suite, particularly the Sarabande, has ensured its place in the standard keyboard repertoire.