Capella Tiberina, Alexandra Nigito & Paolo Perrone - Scarlatti: Violin Sonatas (2013)

Amid Domenico Scarlatti's extensive output of over 550 keyboard sonatas lie a small number of works that, given such traits such as figured bass, multi-movement structure and even bowing like articulation, were probably originally written for solo instrument (such as violin) and continuo. In their third recording for Brilliant Classics, members of the Cappella Tiberina present a selection of these works, experimenting with different scorings which historical sources show were common throughout the Baroque repertoire – hence K78 is presented on the theorbo, while K132 is played as a harpsichord solo.

The pieces are certainly not without their technical challenges; four-part chords and uncomfortable multiple-stops suggest that K88 was probably written for mandolin, though it is here skilfully negotiated by violinist Paolo Perrone. Ranging from ambitious works to more modest ones, these continuo sonatas document a fascinating corner of the Baroque master's oeuvre and simultaneously reveal the beginnings of the soon-to-emerge Classical style. Capella Tiberina's historical interpretations offer a fresh take on this engaging music.