Scarlatti: Sonatas / Bach: Italian Concerto; Chromatic Fantasy & Fugue

Immerse yourself in the timeless elegance of Domenico Scarlatti's sonatas and the profound genius of Johann Sebastian Bach with this captivating 1954 release. The album presents a meticulously curated collection of Scarlatti's sonatas, showcasing his mastery of the Baroque style and his innovative approach to keyboard composition. From the spirited Sonata in G major, K. 146, to the introspective Sonata in B minor, K. 33, each piece is a testament to Scarlatti's ability to blend technical brilliance with emotional depth.

Complementing Scarlatti's sonatas are Bach's iconic Italian Concerto and the Chromatic Fantasia and Fugue. The Italian Concerto, with its lively Allegro, serene Andante, and exuberant Presto, exemplifies Bach's unparalleled ability to convey a range of emotions through intricate musical structures. The Chromatic Fantasia and Fugue, meanwhile, is a tour de force of contrapuntal complexity and harmonic richness.

Spanning over an hour and ten minutes, this album offers a comprehensive journey through the works of two of the most influential composers in classical music history. Whether you're a seasoned classical enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, this album is a must-listen, providing a rich and rewarding exploration of the Baroque era's most celebrated keyboard repertoire.

Domenico Scarlatti, born Giuseppe Domenico Scarlatti, was an Italian composer who left an indelible mark on the Baroque and Classical music eras. Born in 1685, Scarlatti was the son of the renowned composer Alessandro Scarlatti and followed in his father's footsteps, initially composing operas, chamber cantatas, and other vocal works. However, it is his 555 keyboard sonatas that have cemented his legacy, showcasing his innovative approach to harmony, rhythm, and form. These sonatas, composed during his tenure with the Portuguese and Spanish royal families, significantly expanded the technical and musical possibilities of the keyboard.

Scarlatti's early career began in Naples, where he served as composer and organist at the royal chapel. His journey took him through various European courts, including those of Queen Christina of Sweden and the royal families of Portugal and Spain. Throughout his life, Scarlatti's compositions spanned a wide range of genres, including operas, oratorios, and sacred music, but it is his keyboard sonatas that continue to captivate audiences and musicians alike. His music, characterized by its virtuosity and inventiveness, bridges the gap between the Baroque and Classical periods, making Domenico Scarlatti a pivotal figure in the evolution of Western music.

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