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The short answer
A quiet minor-key sonata has a bright companion. Keyboard Sonata in D minor, K. 213 is a sonata by Domenico Scarlatti from the Baroque era. PlayPiano puts it at Level 7, an estimate.
- sonata
- Baroque
- melancholic
Also known as Sonata in D Minor K. 213 (The Lover) Domenico Scarlatti.
History
In his archived Micrologus programme, Ross Duffin identifies K213 and K214 as a pair in both original sources: the first in D minor, the second in D major. He also explains why paired performances remain debatable: the grouping could reflect a copyist's choice rather than Scarlatti's own plan.
Sources
What to listen for
A quiet figure receives related answers
The quiet opening contour is answered by related shapes. Hear their connection through the smaller decoration.
Recurring groups gather to the repeat
Repeated pitch groups and changing registers lead toward the first repeat. Follow their longer direction.
Decoration expands the second span
Repeated decorations grow within the changed continuation. Hear their movement without assuming a fingering plan.
Related contours find the final repeat
The closing contours relate to earlier gestures. Listen for their settling response before the repeat boundary.
How to practise it
Sustain the rising opening before its decorated descent.
- Practise the four-note ascent with relaxed preparation for the high D.
- Practise the upper tie and grace connections alone, then add the lower quarters quietly.
- Connect the examined phrase at a comfortable tempo while keeping its stated layers and releases distinct.
How hard is it
Expressive melodic writing and ornament control require independent shaping and careful releases.
About this piece
- Collection
- Sonata journeys
- Licence
- CC0
- Source
- musescore.com
More by Domenico Scarlatti
- Keyboard Sonata in D minor, K. 32 / L. 423 (Aria)Level 3, estimatedWith Maestro
- Keyboard Sonata in B minor, K. 87Level 6, estimatedWith Maestro
- Sonata in B minor, K. 27Level 7, estimatedWith Maestro
