Composer

:

Domenico Scarlatti

Genre

:

Keyboard

Style

:

Sonata

Average_duration

:

3:48

Domenico Scarlatti's Sonata for keyboard in B flat major, K. 228, L. 399, 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 1730 and 1739. The sonata is one of Scarlatti's most popular works and is frequently performed by pianists and harpsichordists today. The sonata is in three movements, with a total playing time of approximately 5 minutes. The first movement is marked Allegro and is in binary form, with two contrasting sections that are repeated. The second movement is marked Andante and is in ternary form, with a lyrical melody that is accompanied by arpeggiated chords. The final movement is marked Allegro and is in binary form, with a lively and virtuosic theme that is developed throughout the movement. The sonata is characteristic of Scarlatti's keyboard style, which is known for its virtuosity, rhythmic vitality, and harmonic inventiveness. The piece is written in the key of B flat major, which was a popular key for keyboard music in the Baroque era. Scarlatti's use of ornamentation, such as trills and mordents, adds to the piece's virtuosic character. The sonata also features Scarlatti's signature use of cross-rhythms, which create a sense of rhythmic tension and drive. Overall, Scarlatti's Sonata for keyboard in B flat major, K. 228, L. 399, is a masterful example of Baroque keyboard music. Its virtuosic character, rhythmic vitality, and harmonic inventiveness make it a popular choice for pianists and harpsichordists today.

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