Johann Sebastian Bach‘s Clavier-Übung II elevates two differing national styles to create a pair of incomparable masterpieces. The Italian Concerto uses the spectacular effects available from a two-manual harpsichord to represent contrasts between different groups of instruments, while the French Overture, Bach’s longest keyboard suite, explores French harmonies, rhythms, ornamentation and melodic invention in the dark and dramatic key of B minor. Both the multiple counterpoint of the Fantasia and Fugue in A minor and the unusual harmonic richness of the Sonata in D minor further represent Bach’s mastery of the keyboard and genius as a composer. For the Dynamic label, Alessandra Artifoni has recorded two double CDs dedicated to J.S. Bach’s harpsichord music, the French and English suites. Alessandra Artifoni teaches harpsichord and basso continuo at the 'Centro Studi Musica & Arte' in Florence, where she also coordinates the Early Music Laboratories, and at the Bergamo Conservatory.