This lecture aims to provide an account of the sacred music written by Alessandro Scarlatti (Palermo 1660 – Naples 1725) in Rome, for the institutions and the patrons of that city (he worked for several different Chapels, among which the Sistine Chapel). It first offers an overview of sacred music in Rome between 1675 and 1725, with particular reference to the institutions and patrons connected with Scarlatti. The second part is dedicated to an outline of Scarlatti’s biography in connection with his employments as composer of sacred music and his relationship with his patrons. The third part is dedicated to his repertoire, divided along the lines of the institutions for which it was composed. The session will be enriched by showcasing of archival documentation and musical excerpts.
