Composer

:

Domenico Scarlatti

Genre

:

Keyboard

Style

:

Sonata

Average_duration

:

5:10

The Sonata for keyboard in B major, K. 261, L. 148, is a composition by the Italian composer Domenico Scarlatti. It was composed in the early 18th century, during the Baroque period, and is one of the many sonatas that Scarlatti wrote for the harpsichord. The sonata is believed to have been composed in the early 1730s, and it was first published in 1738 as part of Scarlatti's collection of keyboard sonatas. The piece is in three movements, with a total duration of approximately 10 minutes. The first movement is marked Allegro, and it is characterized by its lively and energetic tempo. The movement is in binary form, with two contrasting sections that are repeated. The first section is in B major, while the second section is in the relative minor key of G sharp minor. The movement features rapid arpeggios and virtuosic runs, which are typical of Scarlatti's keyboard writing. The second movement is marked Andante, and it is a slower and more contemplative piece. The movement is in ternary form, with a central section that contrasts with the outer sections. The movement is in the key of E major, which is the dominant key of B major. The movement features a lyrical melody that is accompanied by a simple harmonic progression. The final movement is marked Allegro, and it is a lively and playful piece. The movement is in binary form, with two contrasting sections that are repeated. The first section is in B major, while the second section is in the key of E major. The movement features rapid scalar passages and syncopated rhythms, which are typical of Scarlatti's keyboard writing. Overall, the Sonata for keyboard in B major, K. 261, L. 148, is a virtuosic and expressive work that showcases Scarlatti's mastery of keyboard writing. The piece is characterized by its lively and energetic tempo, its lyrical melodies, and its virtuosic runs and arpeggios.

More....