1. Listen to Gould’s 1955 recording of the Goldberg Variations. Then listen to his 1981 version of the same piece. You may find it more effective to listen via Spotify instead of YouTube as the individual sections are easier to access.

2. Choose the same section of each version. This is important.

Variation 8, 7:08 – 7:53 1955 video

Variation 8 (rearranged), 7:19 – 7:57

3. Compare and contrast the differences in each performance. Consider SHMRG elements, textural elements, and anything else that serves your interpretation of these very distinct and difference performances. Take your time and try to articulate sound using words.

Looking first at the 1955 version of Variation 8, I would like to say I liked this arrangement more. But it does feel a little lighter and dull in colour,  due to recording instruments used in that time. The right and left hands feel more friendly with each other in the 1955 version, crossing paths of sound with similar dynamic and attack (mono style recording). Also I notice the tempo is faster in the old recording, giving a much more swift texture to the piece. Where as in the 1981 version,  it as a slower tempo which makes it feel heavier and more assailing. The bass line is prominent and collides with the quick left hand and sounds like a battle more than a friendship between the two them. Overall his 1981 sounds more full, capturing a better range of bass, mid, and treble due to better recording devices. But this piece has also aged with him, and is recognizably not the same as he once played in his younger, more energetic days.