The Concerto for Three Harpsichords in D minor, BWV 1063, is a masterpiece of the Baroque concerto genre. Its origins are a subject of scholarly debate: some suggest it is Bach's original work, possibly written for performance with his sons Wilhelm Friedemann and Carl Philipp Emanuel, while others theorize it may be a transcription of a lost concerto for multiple violins by another composer, perhaps Vivaldi. The work is characterized by its dramatic outer movements, with a powerful unison theme, and a beautifully poignant central Siciliano movement. Despite the uncertainty of its genesis, it stands as one of Bach's most compelling concerted works.
This concerto, likely transcribed by Bach from earlier works, showcases the intricate interplay of three harpsichords with orchestra, a rare configuration in Baroque music. Its origins remain debated, with some scholars suggesting it was adapted from lost violin concertos.
