New Classics

Johann Sebastian Bach’s ‘Goldberg’ Variations is the last of a series of keyboard music works that the composer published under the title of Clavierübung. Many people consider this the most serious and challenging composition that has ever been written for harpsichord. Based on a single bass theme, the variations prove Bach’s profound understanding of many musical styles as well as his exceptional performing technique.

This largest of all clavier pieces encapsulates the whole history of Baroque variation, as Beethoven’s Diabelli Variations later did for the Classical period. It requires a performer capable of virtuoso techniques and this outstanding recording the work is by the outstanding German classical pianist Burkard Schliessmann, winner of the esteemed Goethe-Prize of Francfort/Main 2019 and one of the compelling pianists and artists of the modern era. He has developed a considerable personal following over the years as an international concert artist giving performances of music by Bach, Beethoven, Mozart, Schumann, Chopin, Liszt, Brahms, Scriabin, and the Second Viennese School up to the Avantgarde.

This recording of the Goldberg Variations was originally released in 2007 (Bayer – SACD only, not digital) and was highly acclaimed, winning the Critics Choice 2008 (American Record Guide) and Recording of the Year 2008 (MusicWeb International). Newly remastered in 5.0 Dolby Atmos audio, this brilliant recording is now offered as a hybrid 5-channel SACD/CD and in finest digital audio quality. ‘Ambitious and really spectacular.’ – AllMusic.

—John Pitt