The harpsichord specialist Béatrice Martin regularly performs with many ensembles, including Les Arts Florrissants, Ricercar Consort and the Berlin Philharmonic with Sir Simon Rattle. She wanted to record these concertos on two robust instruments, by Christian Zell (1737) and Johan Marti (2001 after Zell’s model).

The chamber formation of the Folies Françoises that accompanies these robust, heady harpsichords corresponds not only to the letter but also very much to the spirit of these works. In listening to these concertos, one is struck by the strength with which the harpsichord is endowed as it supports the orchestral line and nourishes it with immense power.

Listening to these harpsichords as played by Béatrice Martin with inspired intensity, penetrates the intimacy of these works and lets us enter into Bach’s workshop at a time when the most learned of composers had set his heart on providing entertainment with infectiously agreeable music.