J.S. Bach: Goldberg Variations, BWV 988

BY R2 International

At Neilson Hays Library

Wednesday, 29th January 2025 at 19:30

Tickets: 1,200THB for general public, 1,000THB for Library Members

Arranged for String Trio by Dmitry Sitkovetsky (1984)

The Goldberg Variations, BWV 988 by Johann Sebastian Bach, originally composed for harpsichord in 1741, is one of the most celebrated works in the classical canon. In 1984, violinist Dmitry Sitkovetsky created a remarkable arrangement of this masterpiece for string trio, giving the work a new dimension while preserving its intricate structure and expressive depth.

Bach composed the Goldberg Variations as the fourth and final part of his Clavier-Übung series. According to tradition, the work was commissioned by Count Kaiserling, who requested music to soothe his insomnia, played by his harpsichordist, Johann Gottlieb Goldberg. While the anecdote remains unverified, the Variations have since transcended their origin to become a cornerstone of keyboard repertoire.

Sitkovetsky’s arrangement, marking the 300th anniversary of Bach’s birth, reimagines the work for string instruments, expanding its appeal beyond harpsichordists and pianists. It has since become a celebrated adaptation, performed frequently by string trios worldwide.

The Goldberg Variations consist of an Aria followed by 30 variations and a reprise of the Aria, adhering to a strict formal architecture:

• Each variation is based on the bass line and harmonic structure of the Aria, rather than its melody

• Every third variation is a canon, progressing intervallically (unison, second, third, etc.).

• Non-canonic variations explore diverse dance forms, keyboard techniques, and compositional textures.

Sitkovetsky’s adaptation highlights the contrapuntal intricacies and lyrical qualities of the music, allowing the three instruments—violin, viola, and cello—to interact dynamically.

Musical Highlights

• Aria: A serene and introspective melody that sets the foundation for the entire work.

• Variation 5: A virtuosic toccata-like piece, showcasing dazzling interplay among the strings.

• Variation 15: A canon at the fifth in a somber minor key, deeply introspective and expressive.

• Variation 25: Known as the “black pearl,” this intensely emotional variation is marked by chromaticism and profound depth.

• Variation 30 (Quodlibet): A lighthearted conclusion blending folk melodies before the return of the Aria.

Significance of the Sitkovetsky Arrangement

Sitkovetsky’s string trio version amplifies the work’s polyphonic clarity and emotional range. The violin, viola, and cello create a dialogue that emphasizes the work’s intricate textures and counterpoint. The arrangement also brings a warm, human quality to the Variations, transforming a keyboard masterpiece into a communal chamber music experience.

The Goldberg Variations arranged by Sitkovetsky stand as a testament to Bach’s universality and timelessness. This adaptation bridges the gap between solo keyboard repertoire and chamber music, offering audiences a fresh perspective on one of classical music’s greatest treasures.

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