The Italian composer Domenico Scarlatti - pronounced [doˈmeːniko skaɾˈlatti] - is famous for his keyboard sonatas. The spelling of his surname looks tricky, but it follows the phonetic rules of Italian. The "sc" is pronounced like "sh" (as in "sheep"), while the "r" sound is rolled. The "a" is short and crisp, and the "t" sound at the end is "t" (not "d"). Knowing the phonetic transcription of "scarlatti" helps English speakers to pronounce it correctly when talking about the composer or his music.
Scarlatti refers to two primary meanings in the realm of music. Firstly, it commonly refers to Domenico Scarlatti, an Italian composer of the Baroque era who lived from 1685 to 1757. Scarlatti is notable for his significant contributions to keyboard music, particularly his 555 keyboard sonatas. These sonatas showcase his virtuoso playing style, harmonic innovations, and experimental musical techniques. Scarlatti's works greatly influenced and inspired future composers, and his sonatas remain popular among pianists and harpsichordists to this day.
Secondly, "Scarlatti" can also refer to an operatic genre known as "Scarlattian opera," which arose during the late 17th and early 18th centuries. This genre was developed by Domenico Scarlatti's father, Alessandro Scarlatti, who is also an acclaimed composer of Baroque music. Scarlattian opera is characterized by its lyrical melodies, dramatic storytelling, and innovative use of vocal ornamentation. Alessandro Scarlatti's numerous operas played a pivotal role in the development of Italian opera and greatly influenced composers of his time.
Overall, "Scarlatti" is primarily associated with Domenico and Alessandro Scarlatti, both significant figures in the history of Western classical music, particularly in the fields of keyboard composition and opera.
The word "Scaralatti" is an Italian surname and is derived from the personal name "Scaraldo" or "Scarello". However, it is most commonly associated with the Italian Baroque composer Domenico Scarlatti (1685-1757) and his father Alessandro Scarlatti (1660-1725), who were renowned for their contributions to classical music. The origin of the personal name "Scaraldo" or "Scarello" is uncertain, but it is believed to have Germanic roots.