The current collection of Domenico Scarlatti's sonatas presents a profound exploration of the composer's musical genius and innovative spirit. Alessandro Simonetto, drawing inspiration from harpsichordists like Zuzana Růžičková and Scott Ross during his formative years, has carefully chosen highlights that reflect his deep passion for Scarlatti's work.
The Sonata in C Major, Kk. 159, unfolds with a vibrant and hunt-evocative character, showcasing Scarlatti's ability to infuse joy and brightness into his compositions. Moving to the Sonata in A Minor, Kk. 175, Scarlatti's impetuous expression is evident, featuring groundbreaking elements like novel clusters that were remarkably avant-garde for the time.
The Sonata in D Minor, Kk. 516, stands as a pinnacle of Scarlatti's keyboard repertoire, its expansive and emotive character delving into the depths of minor key expressiveness. Sonata in D Minor, Kk. 213, a magnum opus, demonstrates Scarlatti's compositional prowess with intricate melodic lines and harmonic exploration, marking it as a significant piece in the Baroque era.
The Sonata in D Minor, Kk. 34, Sonata in D Minor, Kk. 32, Sonata in B-Flat Major, Kk. 42, and Sonata in C Minor, Kk. 40, are captivating Minuetti, revealing Scarlatti's command over concise musical expression and dance forms.
Scarlatti's exploration of the minor key is exemplified in the Sonata in C Minor, Kk. 84, where the composer delves into expressive depths, adding emotional complexity to his work. Sonata in F Minor, Kk. 69, showcases Scarlatti's ability to navigate intricate emotional landscapes with skill and sensitivity, offering a profound listening experience.
As we delve into the second set, the Sonata in F Minor, Kk. 386, stands out for its nuanced expression, while the lively and spirited character of Sonata in F Major, Kk. 38, adds a layer of joy to the collection. The Sonata in F Minor, Kk. 238, stands as a contemplative piece, demonstrating Scarlatti's ability to create music that resonates with the soul.
The collection features a variety of stylistic elements, from the delightful Sonata in B-Flat Major, Kk. 42, to the dramatic and expressive Sonata in F Minor, Kk. 466. The Sonata in G Major, Kk. 525, unfolds with elegance and sophistication, while the attributed work Sonata in G Minor (Attrib. to J.A. Hasse) offers a glimpse into Scarlatti's diverse influences.
Alessandro Simonetto's exceptional interpretation skillfully captures the essence of each Sonata, seamlessly transitioning between the diverse emotional landscapes presented by Scarlatti. His mastery extends from the piano to the harpsichord, highlighting the distinct tonal qualities of each instrument.
This recording unveils the Keyboard Sonatas of Domenico Scarlatti through a meticulously re-intonated harpsichord, a faithful reproduction of Johannes Ruckers' 1638 Antwerp instrument by William Horn. Capturing the authenticity of the Baroque era, the performance is enhanced by the unique tonal character produced by two historical Neumann K. 74 microphones, carefully selected from producer Simonetto's collection. The portentous and luminous sound of the harpsichord stands as a testament to its exceptional quality, requiring no post-production enhancements to elevate its brilliance. This recording provides an unfiltered and authentic experience, allowing listeners to immerse themselves in the pristine resonance of Scarlatti's sonatas as they were meant to be heard.