The Absolute Best
There is no better performer of Bach keyboard works, and this recording definitively demonstrates that fact. After you listen to this, listen to his recording of the two and three part inventions.
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thoughtful
Gopuild is described as eccentric and opionated. well, if that's what it takes to give a brilliant performance, then we need more pioanistzs like him. hisx performaznce is edgy and risky and is definitive ad full of fire and passion, who'd associate such passion to bach.
Gould was actually Canadian
...but that doesn't diminish the quality of this recording. It's amazing. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Glenn_Gould
No Brainer for Bach Fans...and fellow Americans
This is the definitve version on modern instruments (for harpsichord, I like the vintage Wanda Landowska). It's clear and very tube-sounding (a pleasure to listen to, even if it's in mono). Glenn shows us his ability to extract music without sounds too American (German music, like Bach and Hindemith requires a bit of technicality, analytical approach, and lots of 'uber' technique) and relaxing to emphasize the melody, as many American (yes, I am American) interpreters have done with this work. Great foundation, great execution---this is a no brainer for Bach fans.
Pivot recording for an appreciation of Bach
I can remember listening to Gould playing Bach in 1980s and it opened my ears to Baroque music interpreted with modern sensitivities. Even today, this recording underscores his importance in the Bach discography.
An Excellent Recording
Bach's Goldberg Variations are an essential to serious classical collectors and represents one of the finest piano works. This recording is a solid, reliable and good sounding one that you'll enjoy for a long time. Its also a great buy. I highly recommend it.
Essential
This is an absolutely essential recording for anyone with a remote interest in classical music. It is perfection in unaccompanied piano. The tempo and emotion are perfect. Download the entire album! This is one of the finest recordings ever made in any genre.
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