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

This work sits at a fascinating intersection of Bach's keyboard writing and his orchestral brilliance, giving string orchestras a Baroque concerto that demands genuine ensemble cohesion alongside harpsichord virtuosity. The three-harpsichord layout creates textural variety that sustains interest across all three movements, and the piece offers a more intricate alternative to the ubiquitous BWV 1043 or BWV 1062 without requiring soloists of overwhelming technical ambition.

A crystalline conversation between harpsichord soloists and strings unfolding in Bach's distinctive blend of intellectual rigor and lyrical warmth. The opening Allegro crackles with baroque energy and contrapuntal interplay, the slow movement settles into sustained cantabile beauty, and the final movement returns to bright rhythmic precision.

String orchestras seeking substantial Baroque repertoire that develops both ensemble discipline and harpsichord technique. This work suits intermediate-to-advanced ensembles with skilled continuo players capable of executing Bach's keyboard writing while managing orchestral dialogue.

• Establish clear basso continuo leadership from the harpsichordists. The ripieno strings depend on secure harmonic underpinning, particularly during the fast movements where baroque rhythmic drive matters.
• Balance the three harpsichord soloists so each line remains distinct without one dominating. This requires careful dynamic control and attention to registral separation rather than relying on volume alone.
• Shape the slow movement's sustained lines through subtle articulation and vibrato control in the strings. Bach's cantabile writing here rewards legato phrasing that contrasts sharply with the rhythmic precision of the outer movements.
• Approach ornamentations and cadential figures with period-appropriate discretion. Harpsichord soloists should respect the written passagework while maintaining the structural clarity that defines Bach's formal design.

Pair this with other Bach orchestral works to anchor a Baroque concert, or program it alongside later string concertos to demonstrate the evolution from concerto grosso to Classical forms. The three-harpsichord requirement makes it ideal for special concerts celebrating keyboard artistry or highlighting advanced continuo players.

• Reading baroque string writing with careful attention to rhythmic articulation and textural voicing
• Ensemble intonation in sustained harmonic passages without modern vibrato assumptions
• Dialogue and balance between solo keyboard and ripieno strings across contrasting tempi
• Stylistically appropriate ornamentation and cadential treatment in Baroque context
• Secure coordination between three independent keyboard voices and string orchestra