Concerto for Three Harpsichords in C, BWV 1064 (composer's arrangement of a lost Concerto for Three Violins): String Orchestra, Solo Keyboard with Ensemble, Conductor Score

This concerto showcases Bach's gift for the concerto grosso principle, pitting three harpsichords against the ensemble in dialogue that feels both intimate and grand. The slow movement offers the kind of expressive, songlike writing that makes Bach accessible to audiences while the outer movements provide satisfying rhythmic drive and polyphonic clarity. Bringing together strings and multiple keyboard soloists creates an unusual and sophisticated sound that distinguishes this work from more frequently performed Bach concertos.

The piece unfolds with elegant clarity and contrapuntal sophistication, balancing the intimacy of harpsichord conversation with the warmth of string accompaniment. The cantabile slow movement offers lyrical beauty that contrasts with the rhythmic vitality of the outer movements, creating an arc that feels both intellectually engaging and emotionally resonant.

This work suits orchestras with accomplished harpsichordists and strong string players capable of ensemble awareness alongside soloists. It works well for conductors seeking to program Bach beyond the Brandenburg Concertos while maintaining the ensemble's interest in collaborative solo writing.

• Balance the three harpsichord soloists so each voice remains audible within the texture; they function as a unit but must retain individual clarity.
• Establish a steady, dance-like pulse in the outer movements; Bach's rhythmic drive depends on rhythmic integrity from the string section.
• Shape the slow movement with long-line phrasing rather than phrase-by-phrase articulation; the harpsichords should sing through their figuration.
• Use the continuo function of the harpsichords to anchor harmonic grounding while their solo passages provide virtuosic contrast.

This concerto pairs naturally with other Bach orchestral works for a themed concert or serves as the centerpiece for a program exploring the concerto grosso tradition across the Baroque. Its moderate length and engaging texture make it suitable for both concert and educational contexts where you want to highlight the ensemble's string and keyboard collaboration.

• Playing as a soloist within an ensemble context
• Maintaining independence across multiple keyboard parts
• Reading and performing continuo figures on harpsichord
• Balancing harmonic responsibility with melodic clarity
• Understanding the concerto grosso principle through performance