Album insights
In 2018, following his remarkable success with Johann Sebastian Bach, Víkingur Ólafsson recorded the monumental Goldberg Variations of the composer, leading to his first Grammy® win in the "Classical Instrumental Solo" category. The album, accompanied by a comprehensive essay, showcases the pianist's insights on the composition and its history. Reflecting on his interpretation choices for a recording he had envisioned for 25 years, Ólafsson emphasizes the brilliance of the Goldberg Variations lies not in the general aspect, but in the specific details. According to him, each variation enthralls with its unique drama and emotion, drawing listeners into its exquisite microcosm and imbuing them with the joy of exploration.