Composer

:

Domenico Scarlatti

Genre

:

Keyboard

Style

:

Sonata

Average_duration

:

3:40

The Sonata for keyboard in B minor, K. 497, L. 146, is a solo keyboard work composed by the Italian composer Domenico Scarlatti. Scarlatti was a prolific composer of keyboard music, and this sonata is one of his most famous and frequently performed works. The sonata was composed in the early 18th century, likely around 1738-1740. It was first published in 1742 as part of Scarlatti's collection of keyboard sonatas, which he called "Essercizi per gravicembalo" (Exercises for Harpsichord). The sonata is in three movements, and has a total duration of approximately 10 minutes. The first movement of the sonata is marked "Andante," and is in B minor. It begins with a simple, melancholy melody in the right hand, accompanied by a steady bass line in the left hand. The melody is then repeated with some variations, and the movement ends with a brief coda. The second movement is marked "Allegro," and is in B major. It is a lively and virtuosic piece, with rapid runs and arpeggios in both hands. The movement is in binary form, with a repeated section in the middle. The final movement is marked "Presto," and is in B minor. It is a fast and energetic piece, with a driving rhythm and intricate figurations in both hands. The movement is in rondo form, with a recurring theme that alternates with contrasting episodes. The Sonata for keyboard in B minor, K. 497, L. 146, is characteristic of Scarlatti's keyboard music in its virtuosity, rhythmic vitality, and harmonic inventiveness. It is also notable for its expressive depth and emotional range, particularly in the melancholy first movement. The sonata has been widely admired and performed by pianists and harpsichordists alike, and remains a beloved work in the keyboard repertoire.

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