Work

Domenico Scarlatti

Domenico Scarlatti Composer

Sonata in G-, K.450, L.338 ('Burlesca')

Performances: 5
Tracks: 4
MIDIs: 1
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Musicology:
  • Sonata in G-, K.450, L.338 ('Burlesca')
    Key: G-
    Year: 1756-57
    Genre: Sonata
    Pr. Instrument: Harpsichord

This sonata, like many in Scarlatti's oeuvre, conjures up extra-musical imagery. In this case, it evokes scenes of marching toy soldiers or images puppet figures imitating military movements. Of course, it should be noted that the work is subtitled "Burlesca," indicating that Scarlatti may have intended it as a mockery of pompous behaviors. Employed by the Spanish Court of Queen Maria Barbara, the composer must have undoubtedly witnessed much regal pretension and silliness. The work opens with a fanfare-like catchy theme whose delicate but stiff manner may suggest toy soldier imagery. After the march-like main theme and its busy second subject are repeated, Scarlatti transforms the material into more serious music—or so its seems. In fact, the music never sheds its humorous character in the latter half, never breaks from its burlesca style, its more serious demeanor seeming nothing but subtle, thinly-veiled parody. This colorful and utterly charming work typically has a duration of four minutes.

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