Domenico Scarlatti entered the world in 1685 in Naples, sharing his birth year with Johann Sebastian Bach and George Frideric Handel. While his early professional life unfolded within the musical circles of Italy and the service of a Polish queen, his artistic legacy eventually solidified through his decades of employment within the royal courts of Portugal and Spain.
Early Career and Italian Training
Born into a musical family, he received his initial training from his father, Alessandro Scarlatti. By 1701, he held positions as a composer and organist at the Chapel Royal of Naples. His early output included operas such as Ottavia Restituita al Trono and Il Giustino, both produced in 1703. He later served as the musical director at the Julian Chapel at St. Peter’s in Rome between 1714 and 1719, following a period managing the musical needs for the exiled Queen Marie Casimire.
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In 1719, he relocated to Lisbon to serve King John V of Portugal. This position involved acting as a music master to the king’s brother and Princess Maria Barbara. In 1729, he followed the princess to Seville after her marriage to the Spanish crown prince, Fernando. He moved to Madrid in 1733, maintaining his role as music master. By 1746, when his patrons ascended to the Spanish throne, he was firmly established in the royal court.
Composition and Legacy
Scarlatti is best remembered for his 555 keyboard sonatas. He personally oversaw the 1738 publication of his Essercizi per gravicembalo, a collection dedicated to King John V, which earned him a knighthood in the Military Order of Saint James of the Sword. These keyboard works frequently integrated elements of Spanish life, including rhythmic references to castanets and guitars. He remained in Madrid until his death in 1757 at age 71.
Fast facts
- Born: 1685, Naples
- Died: 1757, Madrid
- Occupations: Composer, organist, harpsichordist
- Primary works: 555 keyboard sonatas
- Notable publication: Essercizi per gravicembalo (1738)
- Knighthood: Military Order of Saint James of the Sword (1738)
- Citizenship: Kingdom of Naples, Kingdom of Spain
Questions readers ask
What is Scarlatti's primary contribution to music?
He is primarily known for his 555 keyboard sonatas, which influenced the development of the Classical style.
Where did Scarlatti spend the final years of his life?
He resided in Madrid, Spain, serving the Spanish royal family until his death in 1757.
Achievements
- Knight of the Military Order of Saint James of the Sword — 1738
- Notable work: Essercizi per gravicembalo
- Worked as composer, harpsichordist and organist
