Born: Naples- October 16, 1685
Died: Madrid- July 23, 1757
An Italian composer of the Baroque era (born the same year as J.S. Bach and G.F. Handel), Scarlatti is considered by some to have shaped the style of classical composers (eg. Mozart, Hayden, Schubert). Born in Napoli to the famed composer Alessandro Scarlatti, he continued writing as his father did, though with a more radical style for the time for transitioning into the Classical Era. In addition, he was an establish harpsichordist.
Scarlatti spent most of his career composing for the Spanish and Portuguese Royal Families. However he did compose several operas for the Polish Queen Casimire for production in her theaters. Regardless of his opera compositions, Scarlatti is mainly known for his keyboard sonatas after his father.
In Madrid, Scarlatti befriended the Neapolitan castrato singer Farinelli who as well worked for the Royal Families. His friendship with Farinelli was very important because it was he, Farinelli, who recalled the most of his life and their friendship in writing. Scarlatti died in Madrid at the age of 71.
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