Scarlatti: Opera omnia per tastira, Vol. 6

Featuring

Francesco Tasini
Alessandro Scarlatti

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Recording & Production

This album is the sixth CD in a project to record the complete keyboard works of Alessandro Scarlatti, performed on harpsichord and organ.

Compositional Technique

Many of Scarlatti's variations on a 'Basso obligato' include 'segnature numeriche' (numerical markings), indicating the composer's intention for the performer to add an extemporaneous, supplementary accompaniment.

Composition History

The recording project for Alessandro Scarlatti's complete keyboard works originated from a decade-long study and publication plan of 25 manuscript sources containing his keyboard music.

Compositional Technique

Scarlatti's 'Varie Introduttioni' also demonstrate the practice of keyboard improvisation, featuring his characteristic 'acciaccaturas' and showing similarities to works by his friend Bernardo Pasquini, a contemporary composer.

Compositional Technique

Alessandro Scarlatti's 'Varie Introduttioni' are 17 miniature toccatas or short intonations designed to teach students the 'noble bearing of the hands' and serve as preparatory studies for his longer toccatas.

Composer Biography

Alessandro Scarlatti was admitted to the 'Accademia degli Arcadi' in Rome under the pseudonym Terpandro Azeriano, referencing the ancient Greek lyre player Terpander of Antissa.

Historical Context

Alessandro Scarlatti, Bernardo Pasquini, and Arcangelo Corelli were colleagues in the 'Royal Academy' founded by Christina of Sweden in 1674 and were all admitted to the 'Accademia degli Arcadi' in Rome in 1706.