Composer

:

Domenico Scarlatti

Genre

:

Keyboard

Style

:

Sonata

Average_duration

:

3:42

Domenico Scarlatti's Sonata for keyboard in B minor, K. 376, L. 34, is a solo keyboard work 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 famous works and is often performed by pianists and harpsichordists today. The sonata is in three movements, with the first and third being in B minor and the second in D major. The first movement is marked Allegro, and it is a lively and energetic piece that showcases Scarlatti's virtuosic keyboard writing. The second movement, marked Andante, is a slower and more contemplative piece that provides a contrast to the first and third movements. The third movement is marked Presto, and it is a fast and exciting piece that brings the sonata to a thrilling conclusion. One of the characteristics of Scarlatti's keyboard music is his use of the binary form, which consists of two contrasting sections that are repeated. This structure is evident in the first and third movements of the sonata, which both have two distinct sections that are repeated. Scarlatti also frequently used ornamentation in his keyboard music, and this is evident in the many trills and other embellishments that are present in the sonata. Another characteristic of Scarlatti's keyboard music is his use of the Spanish style, which he was exposed to during his time in the Spanish court. This influence is evident in the use of syncopated rhythms and the frequent use of hemiola, which is a rhythmic device that creates a cross-rhythm by grouping notes in threes against a duple meter. The Sonata for keyboard in B minor, K. 376, L. 34, was likely composed for Scarlatti's own use, as he was an accomplished keyboard player himself. The sonata is a testament to Scarlatti's skill as a composer and his ability to create music that is both technically challenging and musically engaging.

More....