Benjamin Alard, a French organist, harpsichordist, and clavichordist regarded as one of the foremost Bach interpreters of his generation, presents the third instalment of his complete organ works series at Saint Joseph's Oratory of Mount Royal in Montreal. He is titular organist at Saint-Louis-en-l'Île in Paris and a winner of international competitions.
The programme opens with Bach's Six Schübler Chorales (BWV 645–650), a set of chorale preludes originally transcribed from cantata movements. These are followed by the Concerto in D minor, BWV 596, Bach's organ transcription of Vivaldi's Concerto for two violins, cello, and strings, Op. 3 No. 11 from L'Estro Armonico.
The recital concludes with a substantial selection from Part III of the Clavier-Übung: the Prelude in E-flat major (BWV 552), six chorales including the three Kyrie settings (BWV 669–674), and the concluding Fugue in E-flat major (BWV 552).
Vincent Boucher serves as host for the evening. A large screen projection will accompany the performance. The event is presented in partnership with Saint Joseph's Oratory of Mount Royal.