A Journey to Take Again and Again
Released in 2003, András Schiff’s recording of Johann Sebastian Bach’s “Goldberg Variations” is one of the pianist’s defining recordings. On 13 November, it will be released on vinyl for the first time as a lavishly presented double LP on ECM New Series. Exclusive to the DG Store is a bundle combining the double LP with a hi-res download in 192 kHz / 24-bit.
By revisiting the work, the Hungarian pianist sought to capture how his perspective on Bach had changed over the years. The New York Times highlighted how completely the pianist had internalised this music. Indeed, Schiff’s playing feels less like a demonstration of a formidable pianistic challenge than an exploration of the work’s inner connections.
In his extensive liner notes, Schiff describes the “Goldberg Variations” as a journey, with himself as the guide. The starting point is the Aria, whose richly ornamented melody can easily command all the attention at first. Schiff, however, directs the listener’s attention deeper, towards the bass line that forms the foundation of the entire work. Above it unfold 30 variations of astonishing diversity: virtuosic toccatas sit alongside lyrical character pieces, dances and rigorously constructed canons. The canons follow a clear sequence, from the unison to the ninth. Despite this almost architectural construction, the music remains constantly in motion.
Schiff’s understanding of the work is particularly evident in the repeats. He observes them all, yet never plays them in exactly the same way. Subtle changes in articulation, phrasing, dynamics and ornamentation continually shift the perspective. From this strict form emerges an interpretation that feels both controlled and extraordinarily alive.
The cycle’s expressive range becomes especially apparent in its second half. The dark, minor-key fifteenth variation is followed by a French overture, marking the ceremonial opening of a new section. Later, the 25th variation, a slow Adagio, leads to one of the work’s quietest and most solemn moments. From there, the music gradually finds its way back into the light, until, in the thirtieth variation, Bach unexpectedly replaces the strict sequence of canons with an exuberant quodlibet.
Then the Aria returns, unchanged and yet no longer the same. After more than an hour of music, Schiff writes, we hear it “with different ears”. Beginning and end converge, and the process of variation also becomes an experience of memory and return. For Schiff, the “Goldberg Variations” are therefore “one of those few journeys that can be undertaken again and again”.
Exclusive to the DG Store: Double LP Including Hi-Res Download
Available on vinyl for the first time, the recording will be released on 13 November as a 2-LP edition in a premium tip-on gatefold sleeve. A 12-page booklet featuring András Schiff’s own “travel guide” to the “Goldberg Variations” complements the release, offering a personal insight into one of his most significant Bach interpretations. Exclusive to the DG Store is a bundle combining the double LP with a hi-res download in 192 kHz / 24-bit.
