James Gough with Dame Gillian Weir - Bach's Trio Sonatas

Written around 1730, the Trio Sonatas of JS Bach are delightful 3-movement works with complete independence for hands and feet, allowing for both intimate beauty and textural complexity. They also show Bach’s priorities as a teacher, having written them for his eldest son Wilhelm Friedemann to improve both technically and musically. They resemble very few other pieces for the organ, as their texture imitates the instrumental trio sonata; and, as such, can be considered among the most difficult works to play in the repertory.

University of Bristol alumnus James Gough makes his debut at the Clifton International Festival of Music as he takes on all six trio sonatas in one evening! James is joined by Dame Gillian Weir, one of the great virtuoso organists of our time, as she sheds light on the context and composition of these great works throughout the concert.