Bach: Goldberg Variations, BWV 988 (Arr. P. Navarro-Alonso)

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Johann Sebastian Bach

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Composition History

The Goldberg Variations were originally published in 1741 as 'Aria with diverse variations for the harpsichord with two manuals,' without mentioning 'Goldberg' in the title.

Interpretation

Peter Navarro-Alonso's recomposition for this album uses recorder, saxophone, and percussion, a combination chosen for its diverse timbre and dynamic range, despite not being a traditional Baroque re-orchestration.

Compositional Technique

The Goldberg Variations are structured in two halves, with Variation 15 concluding in G minor and Variation 16 beginning like a French Overture, marking a clear new start.

Compositional Technique

The Goldberg Variations are based on the bass line of the opening Aria, rather than its melody, which was a common compositional preference for Bach.

Compositional Technique

The work features nine canons, each increasing the interval between the canonic parts by one integer, from a second to a ninth.

Composer's Artistic Vision

Bach's music is considered "indestructible" because it transcends instruments, allowing it to be reinvented across various ensembles and instruments.

Composition History

The popular story that Bach wrote the Goldberg Variations for Johann Gottlieb Goldberg to entertain Count Keyserlingk during sleepless nights is likely a myth.