Domenico Scarlatti’s keyboard sonatas are among the most original of the 18th century, especially in their use of often discordant and chromatic harmonies. From the virtuoso Essercizi (K12 and 15) to the touching cantabile eloquence of the Sonata in G major, K144, most of the repertoire on this album consists of lesser-known works incorporating elements of dance forms from Spain and Portugal. The last three pieces, attributed to Scarlatti, are especially intriguing. They include a world-premiere recording of the colourful Sonata in D minor, and the Sonata no.5 in C major which ends the programme with a vivid display of musical fireworks.

Domenico Scarlatti’s keyboard sonatas have appeared in complete editions on harpsichord from performers such as Scott Ross (Warner Classics) and Richard Lester (Nimbus), but while these sonatas are popular with today’s audiences and players alike our ongoing and highly collectable Complete Keyboard Sonatas edition will be one of only a very few recorded on modern instruments.

With its world-premiere recording of the Sonata (Fuga) in D minor this 27th volume of our Scarlatti Keyboard Sonatas collection will be of particular interest to collectors beyond the many already acquiring each volume as it appears, and with a programme of less frequently heard sonatas from Scarlatti’s prodigious output this is yet another jewel in what is already a reference edition.