Review of Víkingur Ólafsson – JS Bach: Goldberg Variations

He doesn’t make it easy for himself. He considered everything carefully. It shows us that this is a peak that cannot be conquered casually. One can certainly debate the path he chose, but one should not accuse him of the fact that the result is meaningless. Víkingur Ólafsson shows that he is a master of the delicate touch with his recording of Bach’s “Goldberg Variations”. He does not avoid controversial decisions; He stands by the individuality of his art. In some variations, the notes sparkle elegantly, sometimes very quickly, but never sportily. Then again, there are differences in deep contemplation, semi-meditation, and distant contemplation. At the same time, always with many nuances and carefully measured pedal use. Finally, two popular songs intertwine, which once again shows how transparent Olafsson is in linking sounds together.

Bach JS: Goldberg Variations BWV 988

Vikingur Olafsson (piano)
German gramophone

Vikingur Olafsson

Experimentation, passion and curiosity are the basis of Víkingur Ólafsson’s artistic work. The pianist, born in Reykjavik, Iceland, in 1984, is one of the most successful interpreters of contemporary classical music, as well as a musical ambassador for music…More