J. S. Bach’s sonatas for viola da gamba
and obligato harpsichord
Margaret Little, viola da gamba
Christophe Gauthier, harpsichord
Bach for two
“Bach for Two” bring together Margaret Little and Christophe Gauthier in three masterpieces of Baroque chamber music: Johann Sebastian Bach’s sonatas for viola da gamba and obbligato harpsichord. True contrapuntal jewels, these works offer a dialogue of remarkable eloquence between two instruments engaging on equal footing, revealing both the expressive depth and architectural refinement of Bach’s chamber writing.
The Sonata in G major, BWV 1027, showcases the grace and clarity of Bach’s intimate style, while the Sonata in D major, BWV 1028, unfolds with galant elegance and dance-like charm. More dramatic in character, the Sonata in G minor, BWV 1029, impresses with its concertante energy and a noble, suspended Adagio. Two pieces by Antoine Forqueray — La Couperin and La Buisson — complete the program with their virtuosity and distinctly French refinement.
Margaret Little and Christophe Gauthier offer a performance that is at once precise, flexible, and deeply expressive. Their musical rapport highlights the nuanced palette of the viola da gamba and the brilliance of the harpsichord, illuminating the emotional power of Bach and the radiant artistry of Forqueray in a performance that is both vibrant and elegant.
| Sonata en sol majeur - BWV 1027 - Adagio - Allegro ma non tanto - Andante - Allegro moderato | Johann Sebastian Bach (1685-1750) |
| Sonata en ré majeur - BWV 1028 - Adagio - Allegro - Andante - Allegro |
* * *
| La Couperin | Jean-Baptiste Forqueray 1699-1782) |
| Chaconne La Buisson | Antoine Forqueray (1672-1745) |
| Sonata en sol mineur - BWV 1029 - Vivace - Adagio - Allegro |
- Access to the hall for tuning: four hours before the concert.
- Tuning adjustment one hour before the concert.
- One straight-backed chair with a flat seat and an adjustable piano bench, or two piano benches
- We bring our own music stands
- Adequate stage lighting to see our scores, but we can also bring music stand lights.
- Light lighting in the hall so that we can see the audience.