Music

One piece to put on in the summer is Scarlatti's "Keyboard Sonata In E [K. 380]", played by Alexandre Tharaud on the album Scarlatti (D): Keyboard Sonatas. It's a perfect light piece for a hot, sunny atmosphere and it's a great, accessible piece, even for people who are new to classical music. It's upbeat but not aggressive. Listen to lots of Scarlatti here, and fast forward to get to K.380, or try a rendition of that piece alone here [to make it easier].

Scarlatti [1685-1757] is like Bach in terms of feeling, but almost lighter and faster, almost sweeter. He was an Italian Baroque composer who worked in Spain and Portugal mainly.

Also try J.S. Bach's "Concerto In C Minor For 2 Harpsichords [BWV 1062]; movement 2. Andante" for a slower, more relaxing sound. It could help people fall asleep if you turned it down very low, but for the most part it's delicate work simply helps you focus and relax at the same time--it's the audible equivalent of lavender's scent. It's played by Ton Koopman and the Amsterdam Baroque Orchestra from the album Bach: Harpsichord Concertos [Disc 3] -- try listening to part of a rendition here.

Don't make the mistake I made and assume a few pieces by Bach are enough to tell if you truly enjoy him--his work has thousands of moods and shades. You will find at least one you love, just keep trying different pieces. J.S. Bach [1685-1750] was one of the most important composers of the Baroque period; his son C.P.E. Bach was a big composer as well, his music is more emotional and intimate than usual Baroque period stuff [he used to be more popular than his father, but now history has switched them again].