The Keyboard Sonatas of Domenico Scarlatti and Eighteenth-Century Musical Style
Cambridge University Press, 3/9/2009
EAN 9780521071222, ISBN10: 0521071224
Paperback, 416 pages, 24.4 x 17 x 2.4 cm
Language: English
Originally published in English
W. Dean Sutcliffe investigates one of the greatest yet least understood repertories of Western keyboard music: the 555 keyboard sonatas of Domenico Scarlatti. Scarlatti occupies a position of solitary splendour in musical history. The sources of his style are often obscure and his immediate influence is difficult to discern. Further, the lack of hard documentary evidence has hindered musicological activity. Dr Sutcliffe offers not just a thorough reconsideration of the historical factors that have contributed to Scarlatti's position, but also sustained engagement with the music, offering both individual readings and broader commentary of an unprecedented kind. A principal task of this book is to remove the composer from his critical ghetto (however honourable) and redefine his image. In so doing it will reflect on the historiographical difficulties involved in understanding eighteenth-century musical style.
Preface
1. Domenico Scarlatti the interesting historical figure
2. Panorama
3. Heteroglossia
4. Syntax
5. Irritations
6. 'Una Genuina Música de Tecla'
7. Formal Dynamic
Finale.
Review of the hardback: '... this book provides an unparalleled study of these works: their form, musical grammar and idiosyncrasies, and their place in musical history.' The Consort