BWV 988 Goldberg Variations (Variation 1: a 1 Clav) by Johann Sebastian Bach (1685-1750)
 The Goldberg Variations, BWV 988, is a musical composition for keyboard by Johann Sebastian Bach, consisting of an aria and a set of 30 variations. First published in 1741, it is named after Johann Gottlieb Goldberg, who may also have been the first performer of the work. |
Notes
Baroque Era. Drop D. 3/4 time signature. key of E minor. 4 pages 31 bars. Arr: Jószef Eötvös
This sprightly variation contrasts markedly with the slow, contemplative mood of the theme. The rhythm in the right hand forces the emphasis on the second beat, giving rise to syncopation from bars 1 to 7. Hands cross at bar 13 from the upper register to the lower, bringing back this syncopation for another two bars. In the first two bars of the B part, the rhythm mirrors that of the beginning of the A part, but after this a different idea is introduced.
Piano Demo (Glenn Gould) (1981 Version)
Guitar Demo (Jószef Eötvös)
Guitar Pro Playthrough