Homage to Scarlatti

"Homage to Scarlatti" is a captivating collection of Domenico Scarlatti's most celebrated keyboard sonatas, released on March 22, 2024, under the Artemisia label. This album is a testament to Scarlatti's enduring influence on classical piano, featuring 17 of his revolutionary sonatas performed by some of the most renowned pianists of the 20th century. The album spans a duration of 53 minutes, offering a rich and varied exploration of Scarlatti's compositional genius.

Domenico Scarlatti, born in 1685, was an Italian composer whose works are primarily classified as Baroque but significantly influenced the development of the Classical style. Known for his prolific output, Scarlatti composed over 500 keyboard sonatas, each showcasing his unique harmonic language and rhythmic vitality. This album brings together a selection of these sonatas, performed by legendary pianists Aldo Ciccolini, Vladimir Horowitz, Walter Gieseking, and Emil Gilels, each bringing their distinctive interpretations to Scarlatti's timeless music.

The sonatas featured on "Homage to Scarlatti" range from the lively and virtuosic to the introspective and lyrical, providing a comprehensive overview of Scarlatti's compositional style. The album includes sonatas in various keys and moods, such as the Keyboard Sonata in G Major, Kk. 259, the dramatic Keyboard Sonata in D Minor, Kk. 64, and the exuberant Keyboard Sonata in E Major, Kk. 380. Each performance is a masterclass in piano technique and musical expression, highlighting the enduring appeal of Scarlatti's music.

"Homage to Scarlatti" is not just a collection of sonatas but a celebration of Domenico Scarlatti's legacy and his impact on the world of classical piano. Whether you are a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a newcomer to Scarlatti's works, this album offers a rich and rewarding listening experience. The performances by Ciccolini, Horowitz, Gieseking, and Gilels are a testament to the enduring power of Scarlatti's music, making this album a essential addition to any classical music collection."

Domenico Scarlatti, born in 1685 in Naples, was an Italian composer whose innovative keyboard sonatas have left an indelible mark on the classical music world. Born into a musical family, Scarlatti's talents quickly matched those of his renowned father, Alessandro Scarlatti. While he composed in various forms, it is his 555 harpsichord sonatas that have secured his lasting fame. Scarlatti's music, though rooted in the Baroque era, was instrumental in shaping the Classical style, making him a pivotal figure in music history. His compositions are celebrated for their rhythmic brilliance and inventive genius, offering a vivid and vivacious musical experience. Scarlatti's legacy endures through his extensive body of instrumental music, which continues to inspire and captivate musicians and audiences alike.