Composer

:

Domenico Scarlatti

Genre

:

Keyboard

Style

:

Sonata

Average_duration

:

4:12

Domenico Scarlatti's Sonata for keyboard in F minor, K. 185, L. 173, 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 1733 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 the first and third movements in F minor and the second movement in F major. The first movement is marked Allegro, and it begins with a fast and lively theme that is characterized by its use of syncopation and rapid arpeggios. The second movement, marked Andante, is a slower and more lyrical piece that features a beautiful melody that is played in the right hand over a simple accompaniment in the left hand. The third movement, marked Presto, is a fast and energetic piece that features a virtuosic keyboard part with rapid runs and arpeggios. One of the most notable characteristics of Scarlatti's Sonata in F minor is its use of the keyboard's full range. The piece features a wide variety of textures and dynamics, with the left and right hands often playing contrasting parts. Scarlatti also makes use of ornamentation and embellishment throughout the piece, adding to its virtuosic and expressive qualities. The sonata was likely composed for the harpsichord, which was the most popular keyboard instrument of the time. However, it is often performed on the modern piano today, which allows for a wider range of dynamics and expression. The piece has been recorded by numerous pianists and harpsichordists, including Vladimir Horowitz, Glenn Gould, and András Schiff. Overall, Scarlatti's Sonata for keyboard in F minor, K. 185, L. 173, is a masterful example of Baroque keyboard music. Its virtuosic and expressive qualities, combined with its use of ornamentation and full keyboard range, make it a popular and enduring work in the keyboard repertoire.

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