Sonata in F major 'Non Plus Ultra', Op. 41

Instrumentation

Musical Terms (3)

• non plus ultra Latin
  Literally \"nothing further beyond\" — a phrase meaning the pinnacle or utmost limit. Woelfl applied it as the subtitle to his Op. 41 piano sonata, signalling its extreme technical demands. The gesture prompted Dussek to respond with his own sonata titled \"Plus Ultra.\"
  Approach Op. 41 with the understanding that Woelfl intended it as a showpiece of virtuosic limits. Extended hand positions, wide leaps, and brilliant passagework require careful technical preparation before tempo is attempted.
• galant style English
  The elegant, light-textured keyboard style characteristic of the late 18th century, emphasising singable melody, clear phrase structure, and simple accompaniment patterns. Woelfl was a master of the galant idiom, his music poised between the Viennese Classical world of Mozart and Haydn and the early Romantic style.
  Maintain elegance and lightness. Keep accompaniment patterns subservient to the singing right hand. Avoid heaviness of tone or overly Romantic rubato. The galant style prizes grace and wit.
• leggerezza Italian
  Lightness; a quality of touch and articulation suited to fast, transparent passagework. Closely related to the galant ideal, leggerezza describes the feather-light brilliance Woelfl was celebrated for as a performer.
  Practise difficult passages at low volume first. Use minimal arm weight, relying on finger dexterity. The ideal sound is clear and even, with no single note standing out. Speed should feel effortless, not forced.