The Pianoforte Sonata: Its Origin and DevelopmentShedlock, J. S. (John South)
History
The Pianoforte Sonata: Its Origin and Development
Shedlock, J. S. (John South)
Sonatas (Piano) -- History and criticism
introduction, then an Allegro somewhat in the Corelli style. An
Adagio, often very short, separates this from the final movement, an
Allegro in binary form, a Minuet, or a Gigue. This "Humphries" musical
landmark is the only one we have to offer our readers between Purcell
and Dr. Arne. But before proceeding to notice the sonatas of the
latter, let us say something, if not of English music, yet of music in
England during the first half of the eighteenth century.
Of the influence of Corelli we have already made mention. That
influence was materially strengthened by the two celebrated
violinist-composers, Veracini and Geminiani, who came to London in
1714; the former only paid a short visit; the latter made England his
home. Then a greater composer than the two just mentioned had already
arrived in London; this was Handel, whose Rinaldo had been produced
with wonderful success on the 24th February 1710. The genius of Handel
triumphed over all rivals, whether English or foreign, for well-nigh
half a century; and this fact alone explains the decline of English
art. But there was another strong influence which specially affected
harpsichord music: the Lessons of Domenico Scarlatti had made their
way throughout Europe. Thomas Roseingrave, who went to Italy in 1710,
became acquainted with the composer, and on his return pleaded the
cause of the Italian with an enthusiasm similar to that displayed a
century later by Samuel Wesley for Scarlatti's great contemporary,
J.S. Bach. Roseingrave edited "Forty-two Suites of Lessons for the
Harpsichord" by Scarlatti. Still another Italian influence may be
mentioned. "On the day," says Burney in his _History of Music_, "when
Handel's Coronation Anthem was rehearsed at Westminster Abbey (1727)
San Martini's[110] twelve sonatas were advertised." But Handel and
Scarlatti make up the history of harpsichord music in England during
the first half of the eighteenth century. Burney expressly states that
"the Lessons of the one and the Suites of the other were the only good
music for keyed instruments."
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