Johann Sebastian Bach: Goldberg Variations

Featuring

Tymoteusz Bies
Johann Sebastian Bach

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Compositional Technique

The Goldberg Variations are a vast study of 'keyboard' polyphony and counterpoint, focusing on drawing many variations from one principal idea, counterpoint technique, and the art of canon.

Instruments

Pianist Tymoteusz Bies performs on a Steinway & Sons concert grand piano for this recording.

Composer's Artistic Vision

Bach intended the Goldberg Variations, like many of his keyboard works, for didactic purposes, incorporating teaching into his compositions.

Compositional Technique

Bach's Goldberg Variations are unique in that the melodic 'aria' theme has no melodic link to the variations, only a substantial harmonic connection.

Recording & Production

This album was recorded at the Concert Hall of the Polish National Radio Symphony Orchestra in Katowice, Poland, between January 23-25, 2023.

Composition History

Bach's Goldberg Variations were commissioned in 1741 by Count Hermann Karl von Keyserlingk, a former Russian ambassador, for his harpsichordist Johann Gottlieb Goldberg to play during sleepless nights.