Pietro Domenico Paradies (Paradisi) (1707-1791) was an Italian Baroque composer,
harpsichordist and music teacher who lived most of his career in London. He is most well-known for his “Toccata in A” which is the second movement of his Sonata No. 6, published in London in 1754 as part of twelve sonatas for the harpsichord.*
 
The twelve harpsichord sonatas, of which numbers 5 and 6 are presented here in a critical
performing edition for the pedal harp, include two contrasting movements that usually share the same key. His musical style is similar to that of Alessandro and Domenico Scarlatti and combine Baroque and early Classical styles with a rich harmonic language and innovative keyboard virtuosity. He also composed concertos for the organ and the harpsichord, individual pieces for harpsichord, arias and cantatas.
 
In this critical performance edition for pedal harp, I have presented the music as it was originally printed and leave the dynamics and possible additional ornamentation up to the performer. All original ornaments, including trills and appoggiaturas, are to be played on the beat. Trills always begin on the note above the main printed note. I have also included all necessary pedal changes, some fingerings and explanations about basic ornamentation.
 
Susan Jolles, editor
 
*This publication restores the original title of “Allegro” to this famous piece. The “Toccata” title
was a later addition.