Crossed Paths: Handel, Scarlatti, Dodgson

Polish-British harpsichordist Katarzyna Kowalik performs as a soloist and with period ensembles in the UK and across Europe. She was awarded the Guildhall Artist Fellowship twice after completing a Masters Degree in Historical Performance at the institution.

This recital traces musical roots across borders, politics, and time. George Frederic Handel, who lived for a period in Barnes, is represented by two dazzling harpsichord suites, including the famous Harmonious Blacksmith variations. His contemporary Domenico Scarlatti, whose career spanned Italy, Portugal, and Spain, is heard in a vivid selection of sonatas and fiery Fandango. Although their paths first crossed in Italy, both composers later became entangled in the political and cultural currents of 18th-century London, where Scarlatti’s sonatas even appeared in a striking Jacobite edition. Their music reflects not only virtuosity and invention but also the shifting allegiances of their world.

Bringing the story closer to home, the programme also honours Barnes-based composer Stephen Dodgson (1924–2013), whose ‘Inventions’ connect modern creativity with the harpsichord’s long tradition. Together, these works invite us to hear how place, politics, and personality shaped music’s roots in Barnes and beyond.

Programme:
Handel Harpsichord Suite No. 5 in E major HWV 430
Handel Air and variations “Harmonious Blacksmith”
Handel Harpsichord Suite in D minor HWV 448
Dodgson Inventions
Scarlatti Sonata in D minor K 9
Scarlatti Sonata in C major K 513
Sclaratti Sonata in B minor K 27
Scarlatti Sonata in A major K 208 “Fandango”

This recital is supported by the Stephen Dodgson Trust.