Johann Sebastian Bach: Goldberg Variations (CD plus score) - Rosalyn Tureck
Rosalyn Tureck whimsically referred to this sixth of her recordedGoldbergsas a "mature interpretation." Older, in this case, doesn't always mean wiser. She still clarifies and shapes Bach's intricate counterpoint like few pianists in history, but her ponderous tempos compromise the music's variety and cumulative impact. Interweaving right-hand canonic lines emerge from hermetically sealed isolation booths, rather than mesh in an effortless dance. On the other hand, ornamental touches emerge with new freshness and organic motion, as well as Tureck's subtly varied repeats--all observed save for the Aria Da Capo. What's more, PC users can access essays, pictures, and the full musical score from these discs. For a warmer, quicker, and more communicative TureckGoldberg, though, stick withher 1994 recording on VAI.--Jed Distler