Reinecke Sonata Op. 167 for flute and piano in E Major was composed in 1882. This lilting Romantic sonata is subtitled "Undine" because it was based on the novel of the same name.
"Undine" was written by Friedrich de la Motte Fouque in 1811, and was the inspiration for ballets, plays, and poetry, as well as Reinecke's flute sonata.
If you've seen the Walt Disney movie, "The Little Mermaid," then you know the story of Undine.
Reinecke's flute sonata presents the story in pure music, with the movements depicting...
The undersea world - Allegro
Life on land - Intermezzo
Undine's expression of love for Hulbrand, the human with whom she falls in love - Andante
And lastly, Undine's grief when Hulbrand turns his back on her for his first love, the human, Berthalda - Finale
Sad to say, Undine doesn't get the happy ending that Disney gave to Ariel.
Reinecke also arranged the sonata for violin or clarinet and piano.
The Undine sonata is actually Reinecke's best known work and is a lovely addition to any recital program.