This new recording celebrates the Arp Schnitger Organ in the Martinikerk in Groningen, The Netherlands, one of the most famous Baroque organs in Europe. Built by master organ builder Arp Schnitger between 1691 and 1692, it showcases his characteristic North German style, known for its brilliant, articulate sound and richly layered pipework. Over the centuries, the instrument has been expanded and restored, yet its original tonal structure remains remarkably intact. Today, it features an impressive array of stops, three manuals, and a powerful pedal division. Its majestic sound and historical significance continue to attract musicians, scholars, and visitors from around the world.

The programme presents works by Johann Sebastian Bach, in connection with Bach’s predecessors, composers who influenced and inspired him: Girolamo Frescobaldi (Capriccio XI), Nicolaus Bruhns (Praeludium in E minor), Dietrich Buxtehude (Ciacona in E minor), and Georg Böhm (chorale prelude, Praeludium in C major).

A beautifully compiled programme, offering a journey over the musical path which ultimately led to the towering genius of Johann Sebastian Bach!

Organist, composer, and conductor, Nicola Dolci has an active international concert career, both as a soloist and as an organist, conductor, and continuo player with various European ensembles. He is professor of Organ at the Pontifical Institute of Sacred Music in Rome and at the “Scuola Diocesana di musica Santa Cecilia” in Brescia. Among his various national and international awards are the Second Prize at the prestigious International Martini Organ Competition 2022 in Groningen.