We have a collection of 24 arrangements for Johann Sebastian Bach - Aus meines Herzens Grunde
What hymn inspired Bach's chorale "Aus meines Herzens Grunde"? Learn!
Who's behind the notes? Discover Johann Sebastian Bach: Master of Baroque Music
Johann Sebastian Bach's Goldberg Variations, BWV 988, is a masterpiece of keyboard music that has captured the admiration of musicians and listeners for centuries. Here are some interesting facts about this composition:
Commissioned for Count Keyserlingk: The Goldberg Variations were commissioned by Count Hermann Karl von Keyserlingk, a Russian ambassador to the Saxon court, who suffered from insomnia. He requested Bach to compose a set of variations that his harpsichordist, Johann Gottlieb Goldberg, could play to soothe him during sleepless nights.
Published in 1741: The Goldberg Variations were published in 1741 as the fourth and final section of Bach's "Clavier-Übung" ("Keyboard Practice") series. This publication also included the "Italian Concerto" and the "Overture in the French Style."
Aria with 30 Variations: The composition consists of an initial aria followed by 30 variations. Each variation explores different musical ideas, styles, and techniques, showcasing Bach's compositional virtuosity and creativity.
A Musical Challenge: The Goldberg Variations are renowned for their technical and intellectual challenges. They require exceptional finger dexterity, precision, and musical interpretation from the performer, making them a favorite among pianists and harpsichordists alike.
Canonic Structure: The work is structured in a canonic form, meaning that many of the variations are composed as canons. In a canon, a musical theme is repeated by one or more voices with a time delay, creating intricate and harmonically rich textures.
The Quodlibet: The final variation (Variation 30) is known as the "Quodlibet," which means "what pleases." In this variation, Bach combines two popular folk songs of his time, creating a humorous and playful conclusion to the work.
Numerical Significance: Bach's use of numerical symbolism is evident in the Goldberg Variations. The work is divided into ten groups of three variations each, with the final Quodlibet making a total of 30 variations. This numerical structure is believed to hold symbolic meaning, though its exact significance remains a topic of debate among musicologists.
Variety of Forms: The variations encompass a wide range of musical forms, including dances like the sarabande, gigue, and minuet, as well as virtuosic displays of counterpoint and ornamentation.
Transcending Genre: The Goldberg Variations transcend their original purpose as a sleep aid. They are celebrated not only for their beauty but also for their intellectual depth and exploration of the possibilities of keyboard music.
Glenn Gould's Iconic Recordings: Canadian pianist Glenn Gould's 1955 and 1981 recordings of the Goldberg Variations are among the most famous interpretations of the work. Gould's interpretations, especially the 1981 recording, are known for their unique approach, marked by his meticulous attention to detail and expressive nuance.
The Goldberg Variations continue to be a source of fascination for musicians and music lovers, demonstrating Bach's genius and his ability to create music that is both technically demanding and deeply moving.