Soler: Keyboard Sonatas Nos. 1-15

Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of late-Baroque music with Antonio Soler's "Keyboard Sonatas Nos. 1-15," a captivating collection of 15 sonatas performed by the talented pianist Martina Filjak. Released in 2011 on the prestigious Naxos label, this album showcases the musical genius of Antonio Soler, a composer whose life was intricately woven with the Catholic Church and the Spanish Royal Court.

Soler, who served as the music master to the princes of Bourbon in El Escorial, composed these sonatas likely for Prince Gabriel. The album features a selection of Soler's approximately 150 surviving keyboard sonatas, which stand proudly alongside the works of contemporaries like Domenico Scarlatti and C.P.E. Bach. Soler's compositions are known for their lively dance rhythms and guitar-like imitations, adding a unique flavor to the classical repertoire.

This album, spanning 1 hour and 19 minutes, offers a comprehensive journey through Soler's early sonatas, from the bright and cheerful Keyboard Sonata No. 1 in A Major to the dramatic Keyboard Sonata No. 15 in D Minor. Each sonata is a testament to Soler's mastery of the keyboard and his ability to create music that is both technically demanding and beautifully expressive.

Martina Filjak's performance brings Soler's compositions to life with precision and passion, making this album a treasure for both classical music enthusiasts and those new to the genre. The album comes in a standard black tray jewel-case with a 6-page foldout booklet, featuring liner notes by Laura Pallàs i Mariani, providing valuable context and insights into Soler's life and music. Whether you're a seasoned classical music fan or just discovering the joys of Baroque piano sonatas, this album is sure to delight and inspire.

Antonio Soler, born Antonio Francisco Javier José Soler Ramos, was a prolific Spanish composer whose music bridges the late Baroque and early Classical periods. Known affectionately as Padre Antonio Soler, he was a man of the cloth and a maestro of the keyboard, leaving behind an impressive catalog of over 400 works. Soler's most celebrated compositions are his keyboard sonatas, which are essential to the harpsichord, fortepiano, and organ repertoires. His innovative approach to harmony and form makes his sonatas stand out, reflecting his studies with the renowned Domenico Scarlatti. Beyond his keyboard works, Soler's output includes concertos, masses, and a notable treatise on musical theory that explores the use of microtones. His influence extends to his role as a teacher to the royal family, cementing his place as a pivotal figure in Spanish music history.