BERLIN: THE AGE OF ENLIGHTENMENT

JANUARY 24, 2015
20th Century Theatre, London

Rachel Brown, flute
Madeleine Easton, violin
Richard Boothby, viola da gamba
Mahan Esfahani, harpsichord
Illustrated talk by Norman Lebrecht

C.P.E. Bach Sonata in D major for viola da gamba and harpsichord, Wq. 88
Benda Sonata XI in D major for violin and basso continuo
Quantz Trio Sonata in A minor, QV 2:Anh. 34
Frederick II (‘the Great’) of Prussia Sonata in C major for flute and basso continuo, SpiF 40
J.S. Bach Trio Sonata in C minor from The Musical Offering, BWV 1079

What makes Berlin a musical city? Is it the fact that it boasts ‘the world’s finest orchestra’, or the greatest number of world-class opera houses in one city, or the most diverse alternative music scene? Is it the combination of all three? Or maybe none of the above? In the opening concert of ASPECT’s spring season, Norman Lebrecht will discuss what it takes to be a musical capital and examine how Berlin went from garrison town to cultural hub. The history is more complicated than it seems. Award-winning harpsichordist Mahan Esfahani explores Berlin’s musical origins from the roots up: from Frederick the Great’s musical consolations, the musicians and great minds he gathered around him, and those he drove away. Where was J.S. Bach when Germany really needed him?