The Harmonists

Harpsichord Duo

Nathaniel Mander & Thomas Allery

The sound of two harpsichords is a truly unique and vibrant sound, ranging from the most delicate sounds to full and rich texture, capable of representing the sounds of full orchestral textures. Although the harpsichord is traditionally used as solo instrument, or as part of a continuo group, there is a stunning repertoire for two harpsichords.

Alongside the core repertoire of concertos and sonatas written specifically for two harpsichords, Thomas and Nathaniel create their own arrangements of music which explore the varied colours of the instruments.

Their repertoire includes arrangements of baroque overtures and suites, as well as arrangements of pieces from organ repertoire by J S Bach and Dietrich Buxtehude.

Have a listen here

Sample Programmes

A due cembali

Giovanni Ludovico Krebs (1713 – 80)

Concerto for 2 Harpsichords in A minor, Krebs-WV 840 (17)

Francois Couperin (1668 – 1773)

Allemande à 2 Clavecins (5)

J S Bach (1685 – 1750)

Concerto for 2 Harpsichords in C major, BWV 1061 (20)

Couperin’s touching allemande for two harpsichords is heard alongside two grand concerti, also written specifically for two harpsichords, by teacher and pupil.

Try that for size

arrangements of grounds, Airs and graces

J S Bach (1685 – 1750)

Prelude and Fugue in G major BVW 541

John Blow (1649 – 1708) Ground in D minor

Dietrich Buxtehude (1637 – 1707)

Ciacona in E minor BuxWV 160

Joseph Schuster (1748 – 1812)

Variations in G for two harpsichords

J S Bach (1685 – 1750)

Gavotte, Air, Gigue from Orchestral Suite no 3

Henry Purcell (1659 – 95)

Chaconne from The Fairy Queen

English grounds from John Blow and Henry Purcell interspersed with new arrangements of great organ works by Bach and Buxtehude

Bach’s legacy

J S Bach (1685 – 1750)

Brandenburg Concerto no. 6 BWV 1051 (15)

JC Bach (1735 - 82)

Sonata for Two harpsichords in G major (12)

JCF Bach (1732 – 95) Sinfonia in D Minor WFV I:3 (8)

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J S Bach (1685 – 1750) Gavotte & Air from Orchestral Suite no 3 (7)

WF Bach (1710 – 84) Sonata for two harpsichords in F major, F.10 (15)

J S Bach

Concerto for harpsichords in C minor BWV 1060 (15)