Domenico Scarlatti was one of the most famous Baroque composers, who spent much of his life in the service of the Portuguese and Spanish royal families. Chronologically, he is classified as a Baroque composer, although his music was influential in the development of the Classical style and he was one of the few Baroque composers able to transition into the Classical period. Like his renowned father, Alessandro Scarlatti, he composed in a variety of musical forms, although today he is known primarily for his 555 keyboard sonatas, which substantially expanded the technical and musical possibilities of the harpsichord.
James J. Boitano, PhD, is the author of our history and culture feature "Il Professore". He taught for 36 years at Dominican College/University in San Rafael, California and retired as Professor Emeritus of Political Science and Humanities and Dean Emeritus of Arts and Sciences. Jim also served on the Marin Symphony Board of Directors for 15 years, including two years as President.
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