Domenico Scarlatti, son of Alessandro Scarlatti, wrote the bulk of his 555 sonatas thanks to his lifelong association with Princess Maria Barbara of Portugal, his talented student.
Historical Context
Naples, a city central to the music on this album, was a popular leisure destination for the Roman upper class and had a lively theatre and arts scene even in ancient times.
Composer Biography
Alessandro Scarlatti, a composer featured on this album, moved to Naples in 1684 to take a lucrative conductor position offered by the Spanish diplomat Marquese del Carpio, the newly appointed Viceroy of Naples.
Composer Biography
Francesco Mancini, an opportunistic musician, became Chief Conductor in Naples after performing a Te Deum for the new Austrian government, only to be demoted when Alessandro Scarlatti was commanded to return.
Composer Biography
Nicola Porpora, another composer on this album, was a significant teacher whose students included composers Johann Adolf Hasse and Franz Joseph Haydn, and the famous singer Farinelli.
Recording & Production
The ensemble Baccano, which performs on this album, is a period-instrument ensemble featuring prominent Baroque specialist musicians from Finland, formed in 2003.
Historical Context
Despite being occupied by Spain in 1504, Naples paradoxically began its 'world conquest' in music, with foreign masters contributing to a lively musical life.
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