Album Notes

Dear Listeners,

To be honest, I don't know where to start discussing Bach, Strauss, or Gould. It would be unfair to try to contain these three giants of music history on one page or reduce their achievements and gifts to a small summation. The recording you are about to hear represents “book ends” of Glenn Gould's output as a recording artist. His illustrious recording career began with now legendary performance of Bach’s Goldberg Variations in 1955. The Strauss Sonata was the final work recorded before Gould's untimely death in 1982. In my tribute this extraordinary musician and thinker, I take the liberty of juxtaposing the sublime Variations with a juvenile work of eighteen-year-old Richard Strauss (who called himself "first-class second-rate composer”). Between Bach (the God-fearing court composer and a father of twenty), Strauss (the future creator of highly troubling Salome), and Gould (who preferred pills over food and didn't give up his hat or gloves in the hottest summer months), there is plenty food for thought.
It was Glenn Gould's recordings with which I grew up in my home, constantly filled with music and musicians. The recordings of Gould were the impetus for my own musical journey and intense studies. The love and inspiration for the work on this project came from my beloved parents, wonderful sisters, caring friends, and marvelous teachers. I thank them sincerely, as I thank you for spending the hour with some of the most beautiful music ever written.
Magdalena


ABOUT THE ARTIST

Polish pianist and harpsichordist Magdalena Baczewska holds a Doctor of Musical Arts degree from Manhattan School of Music, having written a dissertation "In Search for Bach's Cantabile: The Role and Aspects of Oratory and Singing in Keyboard Interpretation.” As a winner of international piano competitions, she has appeared as soloist with several orchestras. Her performances have been broadcast on WQXR, NPR, Voice of America, and on European radio and television.

Ms. Baczewska has served on the faculty of Montclair State University in New Jersey as well as the International Keyboard Institute and Festival in NYC. She is also a published music critic (New York Concert Review). Ms. Baczewska has commissioned works for piano and has given several world premieres. Her main focus lies in the early keyboard literature, which she performs both on the harpsichord and the piano.