Composer

:

Domenico Scarlatti

Genre

:

Keyboard

Style

:

Sonata

Average_duration

:

3:30

Domenico Scarlatti's Sonata for keyboard in G minor, K. 4, L. 390, is a solo keyboard piece that was composed in the early 18th century. The exact date of composition is unknown, but it is believed to have been written between 1719 and 1720. 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 G minor and the second movement in G major. The first movement is marked Allegro and is characterized by its fast, lively tempo and virtuosic keyboard writing. The movement is in binary form, with two contrasting sections that are repeated. The first section features a driving, syncopated rhythm and a melody that is passed between the hands. The second section is more lyrical and features a flowing, arpeggiated accompaniment. The second movement is marked Andante and is a contrast to the first movement in both key and mood. The movement is in ternary form, with a central section that is more ornate and virtuosic than the outer sections. The movement is characterized by its gentle, flowing melody and delicate ornamentation. The third movement is marked Presto and is a return to the fast, lively tempo of the first movement. The movement is in binary form, with two contrasting sections that are repeated. The first section features a driving, syncopated rhythm similar to that of the first movement, while the second section is more lyrical and features a flowing, arpeggiated accompaniment similar to that of the first movement's second section. Overall, Scarlatti's Sonata for keyboard in G minor, K. 4, L. 390, is a virtuosic and expressive work that showcases the composer's skill in writing for the keyboard. The sonata's three movements are characterized by their contrasting moods and tempos, and the work as a whole is a testament to Scarlatti's mastery of the keyboard sonata form.

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