Average Rating: 
Rating:  - This is a treasure with a bonus weird interview
As is true of many of us, Glenn Gould's recordings of the Goldberg Variations are among my favorites. Bracketing his brilliant career as they did, they exhibit both his early and his (very) late genius. Even for those who already own either or both of the previous releases of these discs will want to get the set. The 1981 recording is remastered from the original analog tapes. In 1981, digital recording was new and, as we all know, problematic in lack of warmth. In addition to the genius of the Gould's playing, this is technically one of the best recordings I've ever heard. Gould enthusiasts will also enjoy the outtakes from the 1955 recording present on the bonus disc.A recording of a lengthy interview with Tim Page is also included and is fully odd. After a few minutes listening to it, I felt strongly that something just wasn't right but it took a minute to put my finger on it. The interviewer sounded stilted and curiously scripted. Because he was a better actor and an insufferable ham, Gould sounds less rehearsed, but still there is something implausible about it all. What it actually reminded me of was the English soundtrack of the Japanese IRON CHEF program on the Food TV network. Then I read the liner notes and learned that, in fact, Gould and Page had talked extensively before the interview was taped and scripted the interview. I'm not sure if it was fully scripted, but it sure sounds as though it is. In addition, Gould is fairly full of himself in the interview and shows off and hams it up considerably. So, I found myself annoyed and distracted by what should have been a great find for Gould fans. But, buy the package. The quality of Disc II is worth the price of the package.
Rating: - A wonder, a treasure
Two decades after his death, Glenn Gould's art remains undiminished in stature, as lustrous and diamond-hard as his carefully sculpted recorded interpretations. This CD brings together in one deluxe package his two recorded performances of Bach's Goldberg variations, the first of which shot him to immediate, lasting, and deserved prominence on the musical scene. Even now, close to five decades after its release, the clarity, brilliant technique and sheer energy Gould brings to Bach in this 1955 performance takes one's breath away. Historically accurate performance it is not, but something more important--a rendition that brings the music back to life, fresh and new.The later, valedictory recording, released just before Gould died of a stroke in 1982, makes a fascinating contrast, generally slower and more contemplative (with more repeats taken, though not all), and oddly demarcated inner voices and accentuations that nevertheless illuminate the complexities of Bach's music in a way perhaps no one has done before or since. The sound, remastered from analogue tapes made at the time of the original digital recording, is even better than in the original release There is a third disc that includes an "interview," carefully scripted, with Gould by the critic Tim Page. It is not surprising that someone as obsessed with the process of producing the perfect musical recording as Gould was would have wanted to exercise the same control over a verbal discussion as well! As a bonus there are also outtakes from the 1955 recording sessions. The packaging includes numerous photographs of the pianist in various stages of his life, as well as essays by Gould, Page, and others. This is an album that should be in every pianist's, piano aficionado's, and music lover's collection. Bravo!
Rating: - Absolutely Stunning Sound & performances!!
As a pianist and an avid fan of Glenn Gould. I have never heard his Goldberg Variations sound so wonderful, pure and fresh as this newly remastered 3CD set. This is a no brainer! I used to dislike the 1981 version for its slow tempi and very hash,brittle and congest sound of early, primitive, Digital Recording. Luckily, this time, Sony went back to the original analog master which was recorded simultaneously, as a pre- caution, at the session. In 1981, analog technology was at its peak. With properly adjusted and aligned, the analog has, surprisingly, far better fidelity than early digital technology. Now, you can hear the 1981 version in its full rich sound, with no hint of early digital nasties. It has changed my old opinion toward Gould's 1981 version, like a new discovery. Now, I love both version in a different way. Thanks for this exceptional 3 CD set. Bravo!
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