With lilting rhythms and often written in a minor key, it takes a slow 6/8 or 12/8 time signature. Loosely associated with Sicily, the siciliana evokes a pastoral mood, and is often characterised by dotted rhythms. You can find all of that here, in this heartbreaking Alkan arrangement of the Siciliano from Bach’s Flute Sonata BWV 1031. (We suggest sounding out Wilhelm Kempff’s arrangement, too, which is equally stunning.)

Playing tips: The melody should shine out above the accompaniment. Notice that the middle-line accompaniment is often distributed by the hands. One should not be able to hear this! Note that the bass-note crotchets need extra stress. Pedal tips: Listen to how Chenyin seems to ‘pluck’ the notes. Hence, light dabs of pedal are best (see markings on the score).