Della Ciaja: 6 Sonatas for Harpsichord, Op. 4

Featuring

Attilio Cremonesi
Azzolino Bernardino Della Ciaia

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Compositional Technique

Della Ciaja's sonatas feature a symmetrical arrangement, which Sandberger described as 'Janus heads,' and Torrefranca called 'rhythmical impressionism'.

Composition History

This Opus IV, containing both harpsichord and organ works, was likely published in Rome between 1713 and 1730, with a later copy indicating the year 1727.

Compositional Technique

The sonatas push the boundaries of the 'old' harpsichord, demanding virtuosity comparable to Domenico Scarlatti, especially in the toccatas and canzonas.

Composer Biography

Azzolino Bernardino Della Ciaja (1671-1755) was a nobleman from Siena and a member of the Sacro Militare Ordine Maritimo dei Cavalieri di S. Stefano, an order founded in 1561.

Composer Biography

Della Ciaja was an 'amateur' in the best sense, familiar with musical styles from Italy and beyond the Alps, and began composing during his travels.

Composer's Artistic Vision

Della Ciaja's musical influences extended beyond Italy, as evidenced by his copying of Handel's Harpsichord Suites and his organ designs inspired by instruments in Marseille and Hamburg.