Music and Instrumentation
The instrumentation varies depending on the movement, but the requirements in a complete performance are a flute, two oboes, one bassoon, two horns, two trumpets, strings, and continuo: this instrumentation is effective in outdoor performance. (Some of the music is also preserved in a contemporary score written for a smaller orchestra: this version is not suitable for outdoor performance, as the sound of stringed instruments does not carry well in the open air).
Water Music opens with a French overture and includes minuets, bourrées and hornpipes. It is divided into three suites:
Read more about this topic: Water Music (Handel)