Antonio Soler, now considered the most important Spanish composer of the late 18th century, was baptized on December 3, 1729, in Olot, Spain.
Composer Biography
At the age of six, Antonio Soler entered the famous choir school at the Monastery of Montserrat, where he studied organ and composition.
Composer Biography
In 1752, Antonio Soler became a monk at the Escorial monastery near Madrid, built by Philip II, and remained there until his death in 1783.
Compositional Technique
Many of Antonio Soler's sonatas show the influence of Domenico Scarlatti, particularly in their single-movement binary form, though Soler also composed many multi-movement sonatas.
Composer's Artistic Vision
Antonio Soler's vast output includes nearly 500 individual works, such as masses, motets, psalms, cantatas, and about 150 keyboard sonatas, mostly for harpsichord.
Composer Biography
Antonio Soler was an expert on organ construction, and his advice was sought for building new organs for Málaga and Seville Cathedrals.
Performer Biography
Gilbert Rowland, the harpsichordist on this album, studied with Millicent Silver at the Royal College of Music and is known as one of Britain's leading harpsichordists.
