Composer

:

Domenico Scarlatti

Genre

:

Keyboard

Style

:

Sonata

Compose Date

:

1756 - 1757

Average_duration

:

5:24

Domenico Scarlatti's Sonata for keyboard in C sharp minor, K. 247, L. 256, is a solo keyboard work that was composed in the early 18th century. The exact date of composition is unknown, but it is believed to have been written between 1720 and 1730. The sonata is one of Scarlatti's most famous works and is often performed by pianists and harpsichordists today. The sonata is in three movements, with a total playing time of approximately 10 minutes. The first movement is marked Allegro, and it is characterized by its fast tempo and virtuosic keyboard writing. The movement is in binary form, with two contrasting sections that are repeated. The first section is in C sharp minor, while the second section is in the relative major key of E major. The movement features rapid scalar passages, arpeggios, and hand-crossing, which are typical of Scarlatti's keyboard writing. The second movement is marked Adagio, and it is a slow and expressive piece that provides a contrast to the first movement. The movement is in ternary form, with a central section that is more agitated than the outer sections. The movement is in the key of A major, which is the dominant key of the overall work. The movement features a lyrical melody that is accompanied by arpeggiated chords and delicate ornamentation. The final movement is marked Allegro, and it is a lively and energetic piece that brings the sonata to a close. The movement is in binary form, with two contrasting sections that are repeated. The first section is in C sharp minor, while the second section is in the parallel major key of C sharp major. The movement features rapid scalar passages, trills, and hand-crossing, which are typical of Scarlatti's keyboard writing. Overall, Scarlatti's Sonata for keyboard in C sharp minor, K. 247, L. 256, is a virtuosic and expressive work that showcases the composer's skill as a keyboard writer. The work is notable for its use of hand-crossing, rapid scalar passages, and delicate ornamentation, which are characteristic of Scarlatti's keyboard style. The sonata remains a popular work in the keyboard repertoire today and is frequently performed and recorded.

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