Bach: Variations On Variations – Concerto Italiano

   in Classical Music (Jan, 2018)
This is a fascinating mix of arrangements for instrumental ensemble of works originally for various keyboards, described by Alessandrini himself as ‘a divertissement, a subtle intellectual pleasure.’ Thus, the Passacaglia, BWV5892, originally (probably) for pedal harpsichord, is here weighted, lachrymose and heard in an impassioned yet stylish account (contrast, for example, with Respighi’s weighty orchestration of this work). Concentrating the scoring down, the Aria variata alla maniera italiana, BW989 is presented for violin and basso continuo instead of on harpsichord in a fabulously lilting performance; a pity the church acoustic occasionally muddies the texture.

Of course, the Goldbergs have famously been arranged for string trio by Sitkovetsky, an arrangement that …