Bach: Goldberg Variations (arr. for string trio)

The "Goldberg Variations," a work as meditative as it is virtuoso and jubilant, hold a special place in the immense oeuvre of Johann Sebastian Bach (1685–1750). In 1984, violinist and conductor Dmitry Sitkovetsky (born 1954) wrote a transcription for string trio that has become a benchmark. Originally conceived for harpsichord, the work finds new life here in a sophisticated dialogue between violin, viola, and cello. Each of the three voices unfolds with remarkable contrapuntal clarity, revealing unexpected tonal colors and an expressiveness that is further enhanced by the subtleties of chamber music. This adaptation, which remains strictly faithful to Bach's spirit, fully explores the dynamic, tonal, and articulatory possibilities of the strings without ever betraying the rigorous architecture of the original. Long-time stage partners Shirly Laub (violin), Tony Nys (viola), and Karel Steylaerts (cello) founded TrioFenix in 2006, a Belgian string trio that has established itself as a reference in the national and international chamber music scene. The trio is not limited to works from the classical repertoire but is also interested in expanded formats, diverse collaborations, and bold transcriptions.