Composer

:

Alessandro Scarlatti

Genre

:

Keyboard

Style

:

Toccata

Average_duration

:

8:22

Alessandro Scarlatti's 'Toccata for keyboard in A minor' is a solo keyboard piece that was composed in the Baroque era. It is also known as 'Primo e secondo libro di Toccate No. 2' and 'Toccate per Cembalo No. 11'. The exact date of composition is unknown, but it is believed to have been written in the late 17th century. The 'Toccata for keyboard in A minor' is a single-movement piece that is characterized by its virtuosic and improvisatory style. It is written in the key of A minor and is in binary form, with each section being repeated. The piece begins with a lively and energetic introduction that sets the tone for the rest of the work. The first section features fast and intricate runs and arpeggios that showcase the performer's technical abilities. The second section is more lyrical and melodic, with a slower tempo and more expressive phrasing. The piece ends with a return to the fast and lively style of the opening section. One of the defining characteristics of Scarlatti's 'Toccata for keyboard in A minor' is its use of ornamentation. The piece is filled with trills, mordents, and other embellishments that add to its virtuosic and improvisatory style. The piece also features a wide range of dynamics, from soft and delicate passages to loud and powerful sections. The 'Toccata for keyboard in A minor' was likely composed for the harpsichord, which was a popular keyboard instrument during the Baroque era. It was likely intended for performance in a private setting, such as a salon or a nobleman's home. The piece was not published during Scarlatti's lifetime, but it has since become a popular work in the keyboard repertoire. The 'Toccata for keyboard in A minor' is a prime example of Scarlatti's skill as a composer and his ability to write music that showcases the technical abilities of the performer. Its virtuosic style and use of ornamentation make it a challenging and exciting piece to play, while its expressive phrasing and dynamic range make it a joy to listen to.

More....