What makes Variation XXX of the Goldberg Variations a climactic moment in the work? Learn!
Who's behind the notes? Discover Johann Sebastian Bach: Master of Baroque Music
The Goldberg Variations, BWV 988, is a set of 30 variations for harpsichord composed by Johann Sebastian Bach. Here are some interesting facts about this masterpiece:
Dedication to Count Kaiserling: The work is named after Johann Gottlieb Goldberg, a harpsichordist and composer who was employed by Count Hermann Karl von Keyserlingk. It is believed that the variations were commissioned by Count Keyserlingk as a means to help him sleep during his bouts of insomnia.
Sleep-Inducing Purpose: Bach composed the variations around 1741-1742, and the idea was that Goldberg would perform them to soothe the Count to sleep. The variations were intended to be played on a two-manual harpsichord, which added to the complexity and richness of the piece.
Aria with 30 Variations: The Goldberg Variations consist of an Aria (an initial theme) followed by 30 variations and then the Aria is repeated to conclude the piece. Each variation is a transformation of the original Aria, showcasing Bach's incredible skill in variation technique.
Technical Mastery: The Goldberg Variations are known for their technical complexity and virtuosity. They explore a wide range of keyboard techniques, making them a challenging but rewarding piece for performers.
Numerical Significance: The number 30 is significant in this composition. There are 30 variations, and if you add the Aria and the repeat of the Aria at the end, the entire piece consists of 32 parts, making it a remarkable mathematical structure.
Canon at the Ninth: Variation 9 is a canon at the ninth, where the bass line imitates the melody nine intervals later. This type of canon at an interval of a ninth is relatively rare in Baroque music.
Quodlibet: The final variation (No. 30) is a quodlibet, a musical device where multiple popular tunes of the time are played simultaneously. Bach incorporated songs such as "Ich bin so lang nicht bei dir g'west, ruck her, ruck her" and "Kraut und Rüben haben mich vertrieben" into this playful and surprising conclusion.
Unfading Legacy: The Goldberg Variations have endured as one of Bach's most celebrated and frequently performed keyboard works. They continue to captivate audiences and challenge performers, showcasing Bach's genius and mastery of counterpoint and form.