Goldberg Variations at the Abbey

In the inspiring setting of Saint-Benoît-du-Lac Abbey, Orford Musique invites audiences to immerse themselves in the world of Johann Sebastian Bach through a journey that is both spiritual and introspective. The concert opens on the organ with the Prelude and Fugue in E minor, BWV 533, whose impassioned prelude sets the stage for the fugue’s rigorous architecture. The two chorales that follow invite a more intimate meditation, revealing the full expressive depth of Bach’s musical language.

At the harpsichord, the celebrated Goldberg Variations, BWV 988 forms the heart of the musical encounter. From an aria of striking simplicity, Bach constructs a fascinating cycle of thirty variations, alternating virtuosity, contrapuntal rigor, and poetry. Canons at progressively wider intervals, dazzling two-manual showpieces, and a Quodlibet infused with popular humor lead to a journey that closes with the serene return of the opening aria, transformed by all that has come before.

Luc Beauséjour, one of Canada’s most renowned harpsichordists, approaches this monumental program with the clarity and sensitivity for which he is known. In the abbey’s warm acoustics, Bach’s music unfolds in all its expressive and spiritual power.

This event is not part of the concerts offered as part of the Orford Music Festival. Discounts on concerts do not apply to this event.

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Artist

Luc Beauséjour

Luc Beauséjour has established himself on the musical scene through his refined playing, stylistic mastery, and contagious passion for early music. “The touch is always clear and musical, the playing varied and even dramatic.” (La Presse). Yet his passion for keyboard instruments extends far beyond the harpsichord: he also performs on the organ, fortepiano, clavichord, and modern piano.

First prize winner at the Erwin Bodky International Harpsichord Competition in Boston, Luc Beauséjour also earned top honors at the Southeastern Historical Keyboard Society International Harpsichord Competition in Tallahassee.

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