
Domenico Scarlatti, born in a family of musical virtuosos, carved a distinct niche for himself with his unique compositions and dynamically unconventional style. His 555 keyboard sonatas, that resonate with the pulse of the Baroque period, continue to captivate audiences today.
The Genesis of a Maestro
Born in Naples on October 26, 1685, Giuseppe Domenico Scarlatti was the sixth of the ten children of renowned Italian composer Alessandro Scarlatti. His father, the founder of the Neapolitan School of Opera, was a significant influence in his early musical journey. Under his father’s tutelage, young Scarlatti began his exploration of the vast musical universe, which was later enriched by the mentorship of eminent composers like Gaetano Greco, Francesco Gasparini, and Bernardo Pasquini.
The Early Crescendo
At the tender age of 16, Scarlatti secured the position of an organist at the Royal Chapel in Naples, marking the inception of his professional journey. His initial works involved revising Carlo Francesco’s opera, “Irene,” for special performances in Naples. However, his father, sensing the need for his son to experience diverse musical landscapes, sent him to Venice in 1704.
In Venice, Scarlatti encountered the musical genius of George Frederic Handel and Irishman Thomas Roseingrave. This interaction with international talents broadened his musical horizons. Roseingrave, in particular, was an ardent admirer of Scarlatti’s skills, lauding his harpsichord performances as extraordinary.
The Roman Interlude
By 1708, Scarlatti had moved to Rome to serve as the musical director to the exiled Polish queen, Maria Casimira. During this period, he composed numerous operas and occasional pieces, most on texts by the queen’s secretary, Carlo Sigismondo Capeci. Although these compositions reflected Scarlatti’s growing mastery, it was his later works, specifically the keyboard sonatas, that truly showcased the genius of his musical intellect.
Serving the Divine and the Royal
In 1713, Scarlatti began his association with the Vatican, serving as the musical director of the Julian Chapel at St. Peter’s from 1714 to 1719. His compositions during this period, especially the ten-voice “Stabat Mater,” hinted at the innovative brilliance that would soon distinguish his work.
In 1719, Scarlatti’s career took a significant turn. He was appointed as the musical director to King John V of Portugal and as the music master to Princess Maria Barbara de Bragança. This association with the Portuguese royalty would greatly influence his compositional style in the years to come.
The Spanish Sojourn
Scarlatti’s life took another interesting turn when Princess Maria Barbara married the Spanish crown prince, the future Ferdinand VI. He moved to Spain, serving the Spanish royal court till his death in 1757. In the Spanish court, Scarlatti found his muse in the form of the harpsichord. He composed most of his famous 555 keyboard sonatas during this period, dedicating them to his royal patroness, Maria Barbara.
The Harmonious Legacy: Keyboard Sonatas
Scarlatti’s 555 keyboard sonatas are the jewel in the crown of his musical legacy. These compositions, mostly written for the harpsichord, are single movements primarily in binary form. They exhibit a harmonic audacity in their use of unconventional modulations and discords. The sonatas vary in mood, ranging from deeply serious to light-hearted, embodying the essence of courtly dances and street songs.
Scarlatti’s sonatas reflect the influence of Iberian (Portuguese and Spanish) folk music, with extensive usage of the Phrygian mode. His music was well known for its unique rhythmic patterns and vivacious melodies, often suggestive of the guitar. Scarlatti’s innovative use of the keyboard in these sonatas earned him the admiration of many esteemed musicians, including Johannes Brahms, Frederic Chopin, Bela Bartok, and Heinrich Schenker.
The Public Reception and Influence
Scarlatti’s sonatas were well received all across Europe, especially in England, where they were championed by esteemed music writer Charles Burney and Irishman Thomas Roseingrave. The first edition of his “Exercises” was a bestseller, and Scarlatti’s music was frequently performed by the “Scarlatti sect,” a group of English musicians who admired his works.
Despite his success, most of Scarlatti’s compositions were published posthumously. This included many of his sonatas, which were recorded and produced in the 20th century. Pianists, harpsichordists, and even accordionists have performed and recorded his sonatas, each bringing their unique interpretation to these timeless pieces.
The Curtain Call
Scarlatti’s life came to an end in Madrid on July 23rd, 1757. Despite his death, his legacy continues to reverberate in the corridors of classical music. His residence and his music are preserved as part of Spain’s cultural heritage. His descendants still live in Madrid, a testament to his enduring legacy.
A Lasting Influence
Domenico Scarlatti’s influence on the world of music is undeniable. His unique compositions and dynamic style have left an indelible mark on the landscape of classical music. His keyboard sonatas, in particular, continue to inspire and captivate audiences worldwide. His life, marked by service to royalty and devotion to music, stands as a testament to his passion and dedication. Even centuries after his death, Scarlatti’s music continues to echo, a timeless melody in the grand symphony of classical music.