Johann Sebastian Bach - Goldberg Variations (Shin-ichiro Nakano)

Information

Composer: Johann Sebastian Bach

• Goldberg Variations BWV988

Shin-ichiro Nakano, harpsichord

Date: 2026

Label: Meister Music

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This release presents Shinichiro Nakano’s acclaimed interpretation of The Goldberg Variations, a monumental work by Johann Sebastian Bach. Internationally recognized for his artistry and selected among the world’s leading harpsichordists at the Versailles Early Music Festival, Nakano delivers a performance distinguished by precision, elegance, and rich expressive detail, allowing the unique character of each variation to emerge vividly. Originally recorded in 2006 to mark the 20th anniversary of his debut, this celebrated recording has been newly remastered and reissued in 2026 as a special 40th-anniversary commemorative edition, highlighting Nakano’s enduring contribution to early music performance.

Shin-ichiro Nakano, born in Kyoto in 1964, graduated from the baroque music program at Toho Gakuen School of Music in 1986 and has since established himself as one of Japan’s leading harpsichordists. His innovative 1990 recital series, “A Trip through Europe with Harpsichord,” earned major recognition, including the Osaka Culture Festival Gold Award. International acclaim followed in 1991 when he was selected among the world’s nine leading harpsichordists at the Versailles Baroque Festival. Subsequent highlights include appearances at the Berkeley Baroque Festival, a successful debut at Wigmore Hall, multiple national awards, and acclaimed recordings of works by Johann Sebastian Bach and Henry Purcell. Alongside his performing career, Nakano has contributed to music education through publications and lecture-concerts aimed at expanding appreciation of the harpsichord.