Domenico Scarlatti was an Italian Baroque composer known for his prolific output of keyboard sonatas. The Keyboard Sonata in F minor, K.466, is one of his well-known and distinctive works. Here are some interesting facts about the sonata and Scarlatti:
Prolific Composer: Domenico Scarlatti composed a staggering 555 keyboard sonatas during his lifetime. These sonatas are considered a cornerstone of the keyboard repertoire from the Baroque era.
K.466 Sonata: The Sonata in F minor, K.466, is one of Scarlatti's most famous and frequently performed works. It is known for its expressive intensity and virtuosic demands on the performer.
Single-Movement Form: Like many of Scarlatti's sonatas, K.466 is typically a single-movement work. It follows the binary (AB) form, with each section usually repeated.
Influence on Later Composers: Scarlatti's keyboard sonatas had a profound influence on later composers, including Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, Ludwig van Beethoven, and Franz Liszt. They admired Scarlatti's innovative use of keyboard techniques and his exploration of new sonorities.
Harpsichord or Piano: While Scarlatti composed his sonatas during the Baroque period when the harpsichord was the primary keyboard instrument, they are often performed on the piano today. The expressive possibilities of the piano allow for a wide range of interpretations.
Crossing Hands Technique: Scarlatti was known for his use of the "crossing hands" technique, where the hands cross over each other rapidly. This can be heard in various sections of K.466, adding to the virtuosic nature of the piece.
Homage in the 20th Century: Russian composer Sergei Rachmaninoff paid homage to Scarlatti in his "Corelli Variations," Op. 42, where he wrote a variation in the style of Scarlatti's keyboard sonatas. This illustrates the enduring influence of Scarlatti's music.
Publication History: Scarlatti's sonatas were not published during his lifetime. The first complete edition of his sonatas was published by Alessandro Longo in the 20th century, bringing wider recognition to Scarlatti's keyboard works.
Wide Range of Expression: Scarlatti's sonatas showcase a wide range of expression, from lively and dance-like to introspective and melancholic. K.466, in particular, captures the dramatic and emotional qualities characteristic of Scarlatti's style.
Legacy: Domenico Scarlatti's sonatas remain an essential part of the keyboard repertoire, and performers continue to explore and interpret these works in diverse ways, keeping his legacy alive in the world of classical music.