The Goldberg Variations (BWV988): An Analysis of Musical Styles and Structural Coherence

Abstract

The "Goldberg" Variations is regarded as one of the most important set of variations in the keyboard repertoires. An intelligent structure of this piece, its popularity, as well as its musical and technical challenges that requires virtuoso techniques from a performer; have drawn a great interest of musicians to learn this master work. Being the largest works of keyboard music in the Baroque era, its gigantic scope shows Bach’s outstanding knowledge of diverse styles in music of the day. He constructed the whole variations by incorporating Italian Aria and French Overture, regardless his personal musical style. This article will focus on the musical form, styles, and the interesting elements of each variation and compositional technique; that Bach had used to unify the work as a whole. The outcome will be a very helpful manual for those who started to gain interest in playing or knowing more about the Goldberg variations.