Juvenilia presents the early works of Bach and his contemporaries, revealing their effervescent creativity and inventiveness. Gabriel Smallwood interprets them with finesse and clarity. An album that invites listeners to rediscover the youth of one of the greatest composers of the 18th century. 
By 
Juvenilia, released on February 6, 2026 under the RAMEE label, is a rare and exciting art project by harpsichordist Gabriel Smallwood. It is more than just an album; it is a profound exploration of Johann Sebastian Bach’s early works and the pieces by his predecessors and contemporaries that shaped his musical language. With a selection of pieces for harpsichord and organ, Smallwood brings to life a program that highlights the inventiveness of early 18th-century Baroque music.
On this CD, the performer offers a listening experience that focuses on youth. The works are presented with remarkable expressiveness: from intimate preludes to bold fantasies, from capriccios to structured fugues, each piece reveals the experimental spirit and ingenuity of the composers of this period. The mix of Buxtehude, Reincken, Böhm, Ritter, and anonymous manuscripts gives the program a compelling historical and aesthetic coherence.
What sets Juvenilia apart is the way Smallwood renders these early works with modern clarity while respecting the tradition of the historical harpsichord. His refined technique, sense of phrasing, and deep understanding of the Baroque style offer listeners a privileged immersion into a learned and intimate sound world.
Juvenilia is for anyone who wants to deepen their understanding of Baroque music beyond the most famous works. It’s an invitation to rediscover the origins, dialogues, and sources of inspiration of an emerging musical genius, while appreciating the virtuosity and sensitivity of a dedicated performer.
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