Rhythmic Phrasing

The dense, virtuosic harpsichord part has several quickly repeated phrases that are reminiscent of the Scarlatti solo keyboard sonatas. This passage has a wide variety of rhythmic phrasing techniques over slow-moving, basic harmony. By altering the rhythmic phrasing, composers were able to add interest and a sense of articulation to music that featured the harpsichord, an instrument incapable of expressing different dynamics. In addition, a variety of rhythmic phrases added intrigue to the simple melodies of the classical period.