Domenico Scarlatti

During the Baroque era, Domenico Scarlatti (1685-1757) was one of the most important and influential keyboard composers of the day. His works for harpsichord and organ feature typically complex interweaving melodies which continue to present technical challenges -- including crossing hands -- to performers who attempt his pieces. Scarlatti's most lasting contribution may be the influential forms he pioneered, including an Italian style of Sonata that features two repeating sections, each complete with a change of key and distinct, recapitulating melodies. Through his travels to Portugal and Spain, Scarlatti added distinct influences to his compositions, including that of Spanish guitar music. It's possible that some of Scarlatti's innovations were inspired by his father Alessandro, an important composer in his own right.