Three sonatas on this album, once attributed to Scarlatti, are now strongly believed to be by Albero, based on stylistic grounds and a partially erased inscription on the manuscript.
Historical Context
The term "sonata" originally meant a "sounded piece," as opposed to "cantata," a "sung piece," and evolved into an instrumental chamber form during the Baroque period.
Composer Biography
Sebastián de Albero, whose sonatas are featured, was born in Roncal, Navarra, and became Principal Organist of the Royal Chapel in Madrid by age 24, serving King Ferdinand VI.
Composition History
Albero's sonatas para clauicordio (harpsichord sonatas) were dedicated to King Ferdinand VI, whom Albero served as Principal Organist of the Royal Chapel.
Composer's Artistic Vision
Albero's style is characterized by fast tempi, driving zapateado and fandango rhythms, and the exploitation of the harpsichord's sound for special effects.
Composition History
Albero was the scribe for a volume of 61 sonatas by Domenico Scarlatti, dated 1742, found in the Biblioteca Marciana in Venice, raising questions about their musical relationship.
Instruments
One of the harpsichords used in this recording is a copy of a 1730 instrument by Nicolas and François Etienne Blanchet, a Parisian family supreme in harpsichord making for a century.
