Composer

:

Domenico Scarlatti

Genre

:

Keyboard

Style

:

Sonata

Average_duration

:

4:10

Domenico Scarlatti's Sonata for keyboard in B flat major, K. 551, L. 396, also known as the "Capriccio," was composed in the early 18th century. The exact date of composition is unknown, but it is believed to have been written between 1740 and 1750. The sonata is one of Scarlatti's most popular works and is frequently performed by pianists and harpsichordists. The sonata is in three movements, with the first and third movements in B flat major and the second movement in B flat minor. The first movement is marked Allegro, and it features a lively and energetic melody that is typical of Scarlatti's style. The second movement, marked Andante, is more introspective and melancholic, with a slower tempo and a more contemplative melody. The third movement, marked Allegro, returns to the lively and energetic style of the first movement, with a fast-paced melody and intricate fingerwork. One of the characteristics of Scarlatti's keyboard sonatas is their use of the binary form, which consists of two contrasting sections that are repeated. This structure allows Scarlatti to explore a wide range of musical ideas and to create complex and intricate melodies that are both challenging and rewarding for the performer. Another characteristic of Scarlatti's keyboard sonatas is their use of ornamentation, which adds a decorative and ornate quality to the music. Scarlatti was a master of ornamentation, and his sonatas are filled with trills, mordents, and other embellishments that add depth and complexity to the melodies. Overall, Scarlatti's Sonata for keyboard in B flat major, K. 551, L. 396, is a masterpiece of Baroque keyboard music. Its lively and energetic melodies, intricate fingerwork, and ornate ornamentation make it a challenging and rewarding piece for performers, while its beauty and complexity make it a beloved work of classical music.

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