D. Scarlatti: Sonatas vol.6

Hantaï’s exploration of Domenico Scarlatti contains 17 sonatas: K.119, 179, 234, 501, 502, 69, 43, 384, 487, 170, 6, 550, 18, 544, 273, 161 and 477. Hantaï has an authoritative feeling for the many varied styles therein, and his interpretations are both commanding and totally convincing. Included in the essays is the revealing fact that Scarlatti visited Paris in 1724 and 1725, thus proving the link between the composer and Rameau (and hence J.S. Bach?). No details of the harpsichord are given, but it looks and sounds terrific. A lively, engaging, and thoroughly recommended CD.

DAVID PONSFORD Read the full review on Agora Classica