Harpsichordist Christophe Gauthier presents a recital dedicated to the musical influences that shaped Johann Sebastian Bach in his formative years. Centred on two Bach works, the programme brings together three major North German composers whom Bach knew, studied, or admired: Dietrich Buxtehude, Johann Adam Reincken, and Georg Böhm.
The programme opens with Buxtehude's Praeludium in G minor (BuxWV 163) and Suite in C major (BuxWV 230), followed by Bach's Capriccio sopra la lontananza del suo fratello dilettissimo (BWV 992). The second half features Reincken's Suite for Harpsichord in G major, Böhm's Praeludium, Fugue and Postlude in G minor, and concludes with Bach's Toccata in D major (BWV 912).
The repertoire highlights the richness of late 17th-century keyboard music, encompassing the improvisatory freedom of the stylus phantasticus, virtuosic writing, intricate counterpoint, and the influence of French dance forms.
This concert takes place at Off-Festival Bach, located at 3487 Boul. Saint-Laurent, Montreal, and is presented as part of Festival Bach 2026.