Fabio Bonizzoni - Scarlatti: The Last Sonatas (2004)

Generally, the CDs dedicated to Domenico Scarlatti’s harpsichord sonatas are made to include the widest possible sampling of different aspects of the composer’s work, from the youthful pieces, full of vitality, to the mature compositions which give priority to melodic qualities, by way of the works which feature daredevil virtuosity. This is not the case here. After years of preparing his incursion into the world of Scarlatti, the exquisite Fabio Bonizzoni concentrates on the late works of the composer, in the belief that it is there that the real masterpieces are to be found. Extremely beautiful, profound, deeply felt and introspective music on a disc which clearly standsout in every respect.

We have decided to include this recording in the new Glossa Platinum collection because of the aesthetic affinities between Scarlatti’s production and our contemporary world, some of which are mentioned in the excellent essay written by Stefano Russomanno for the liner notes. Moreover, this CD sees the light in the context of a new phase of Bonizzoni’s work for Glossa, following years of bringing to the fore unjustly forgotten music from the Italian Baroque repertory. This year will not only witness the release of this marvellous jewel of Scarlatti’s, but will also mark the beginning of an ambitious exploration of the world of Bach, in a solo setting as well as with La Risonanza.