Johann Sebastian Bach (1685-1750)
     Goldberg Variations, BWV 988

Andras Schiff, piano
Recorded in Concert, Stadtcasino, Basel, October 2001
Released September 2003
ECM B0001063 [70:43]

Comparison Version: Schiff/Decca/1983

I should report from the start that I am not a big fan of Andras Schiff's
1983 recording of Bach's Goldberg Variations from Decca which can also
be found on the Penguin label.  I find his performance mannered and
fussy, often destroying a fine sense of flow and momentum.  Further, he
can be so reticent in his touch with both the upper and lower voices
that the impact he conveys keeps cutting out.

So, why would I even bother acquiring Schiff's new version?  Mainly
because about 20 years have passed since the earlier recording, and
I've always thought that Schiff has what it takes to be an exceptional
representative for Bach's music.

Although I hoped for better things from Schiff this time around, I am
absolutely bowled over by his wonderful new interpretation.  Largely
gone are the mannerisms and search for nuances that aren't there.  More
significant, the reticence of twenty years ago is now absent; Schiff's
newly assertive touch is consistent and a joy to listen to.  Instead of
hanging back in the shadows, Schiff is now a full participant in Bach's
soundworld.

Likely the most important positive change is that Schiff no longer looks
for the momentary effect that bogs him down in the Decca performance;
his priority on the sweep of the music is now much stronger, and he
doesn't allow the musical flow to be interrupted.

I also can't emphasize enough the improvement in sound quality.
Decca piano sound was not in good shape in the 1980's, having a hollow
acoustic that didn't allow for much detail or sharpness.  The ECM
sound is state-of-the-art in all respects - rich, detailed, crisp, and
appropriately stark.  It beautifully handles increases in volume, so let
it rip!  This is not a version to play softly; it flowers through strong
volume.

Schiff also improves on his decision-making.  As an example, for the
Decca recording he goes to a much higher octave for the two repeats in
the 7th Variation; the result sounds like a bad joke with glassy sound
to boot.  In his new version, he sheds the cute effects and gives us a
compelling reading.

With Schiff/Decca out of the way, how does Schiff/ECM compare to the
Goulds and Turecks of the world?  Well, he's nothing like Gould or Tureck.
Gould makes his stand in an exacting environment; Schiff is more poetic
and much more elastic.  Tureck x-rays every musical strand and digs
deep into the heart of the human condition; Schiff, if possible, avoids
conflict and pain.  However, Schiff's version has a quality that is not
generally present in the various Gould and Tureck recordings.  He has
great buoyancy, and the performances are consistently vibrant.  Schiff
is as upbeat as possible, and he sounds like he's having a great time
giving his live performance.

Schiff's readings are on the brisk side, and some listeners might not
appreciate the quick tempos.  However, what is lost in the savoring
of emotional content is more than made up for through Schiff's greater
urgency of expression.  What counts is that Schiff presents a coherency
that is delightful and makes his version one of the most rewarding for
listening to the entire work in one sitting.

Don's Conclusions: Andras Schiff's new recording of the Goldberg
Variations is a gem that easily supplants his earlier version for Decca.
Now, he experiences the best of life instead of watching it from a corner
of the room.  This is an exhilarating set of performances that deserves
a spot next to my Gould and Tureck versions.  It's the best Bach recording
Schiff has ever made, and I find it essential for the Bach keyboard
section of one's music library.

Don Satz
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