Glenn Gould Bach: The Goldberg Variations

• 1. goldberg variations part one
• 2. goldberg variations part two

Born in Toronto in 1932, Glenn Gould was one of the most celebrated pianists of the 20th century. Particularly known for his interpretations of Bach, his version of The Goldberg Variations is considered to be the finest ever recorded. In fact, many fans consider it to be the very pinnacle of Gould’s recorded work. However, Gould was nothing, if not an eccentric and it was well known that he had the habit of humming softly to himself while playing, including on this recording. Some have harshly criticized Gould for this, claiming that it “ruins” the piece, while many others, particularly his fans (who are legion) simply accept this as a side-effect of great genius.  Originally published in 1741, this piece was one of the few to have been published in J.S. Bach’s own lifetime. Although it is believed that John Gottlieb Goldberg may have indeed been its first performer, it is now considered to be pure fantasy the old story that tells how Bach wrote the Variations as a sleep inducer for an insomniac Count.