Bob van Asperen is a celebrated Dutch harpsichordist, organist, conductor, and musicologist renowned for his expertise in Baroque music. Born on October 8, 1947, in Amsterdam, van Asperen has significantly contributed to the revival of early keyboard music, particularly through his support and utilization of period instruments and historically informed performance practices.

Van Asperen's discography is extensive and centered on the Baroque era's master composers. Throughout his career, he has recorded numerous albums dedicated to the works of Johann Sebastian Bach, including notable renditions of "The Well-Tempered Clavier," "Goldberg Variations," and a comprehensive collection of Bach's harpsichord concertos, as well as "Toccatas" and the "English Suites." His profound understanding of Baroque music is also demonstrated in his recordings of François Dieupart's "Suittes de Clavessin" and Arcangelo Corelli's "Violin Sonatas Nos. 1-6, Op. 5." In addition to his solo recordings, van Asperen has a wealth of collaborative works, offering listeners baroque violin and harpsichord sonatas alongside inspired interpretations of Handel's organ concertos.

Van Asperen's scholarly pursuits and mastery of Baroque performance profoundly influence the early music scene. Educated at the Amsterdam Conservatory and Sweelinck Conservatorium, he later taught at his alma mater and other prestigious institutions. Bob van Asperen is rightfully admired not only for his performances and contributions to Baroque keyboard music but also for his dedication to teaching and research, ensuring the legacy and the intricate nuances of period music continue to thrive. His recent works celebrate the musical heritage of the Netherlands and notably include "A Playlist for Rembrandt," which pays tribute to the Dutch Golden Age and its cultural richness during the painter Rembrandt's life.

Genres

Classical Performance

Harpsichord

Historical Keyboard

Related Artists

Ton Koopman

Trevor Pinnock

Christophe Rousset

Andreas Staier

Gustav Leonhardt

Richard Egarr

Johann Sebastian Bach

Jean-Philippe Rameau

Christopher Hogwood

Glenn Gould

Jordi Savall

Murray Perahia

Latest Release

Andriessen, Bon, Keuris, Samama & Schat

Bob van Asperen•

David Porcelijn

Ep - 5 Tracks - Released September 13, 2024