Benjamin Simon, conductor

Johann Sebastian Bach: Goldberg Variations 

The San Francisco Chamber Orchestra presents a special Main Stage Concert featuring Johann Sebastian Bach's brilliant Goldberg Variations in a virtuoso arrangement for string orchestra. These variations—one of Bach's crowning achievements—are a set of thirty-two short pieces that range from thirty seconds to several minutes in length. Each variation is derived from a single, simple, musical pattern, which is presented in the opening Aria. Dances such as gigues and sarabandes are then interleaved with canons and fugues, deriving incredible diversity from that one pattern. Together, they offer a comprehensive, almost encyclopedic view of Bach’s musical world. There's even a quodlibet. What's that? Come and find out!

The concert begins with a talk by Music Director Ben Simon, who will explain the work's fascinating architecture and unlock its secrets with live musical examples.

Bach’s only set of variations is dedicated to his friend and pupil, Johann Gottlieb Goldberg, who needed a piece to help sooth his master, Count Keyserling—a notorious insomniac!

The Goldberg Variations have been challenging keyboard masters since 1741, and they are now challenging string players the world over. 

Doors open 45 minutes before concert time. Join Maestro Ben Simon for an engaging pre-concert talk 30 minutes prior to concert time! 

Admission is free for everyone, but tickets are still required for non-members! Reserve online here, or call 415.692.5258 to make your reservation by phone. Tickets may also be given at the door, subject to availability. 

SFCO supporting members receive priority seating and do not need tickets (please bring membership card to concert). Admission to priority seating for members' guests is available for a $20 donation each. Become a supporting member of the SFCO today at sfchamberorchestra.org/membership!