The Bucket List and J. S. Bach: Goldberg Variations 10/24/11

October 25, 2011

I have written about J.S.Bach: Goldberg Variations several times this year. I have been practicing this piece to prepare for the concert at LA Bach Festival on Sat. 10/22/11. Fortunately my concert at LA Bach Festival was sold out, and I am happy how I played. Many audience members told me that they were transformed. I performed under candle lights. It is a power of Goldberg Variations. Before the concert I prayed to God how much I appreciate this opportunity, I don’t get trapped into fear of memory slip (it is more than 70 minutes long!), and instead of worry I can enjoy the musical journey. It is a very special music to play and to listen to. The recording of Goldberg Variations from LA Bach Festival is found under Junko Ueno Garrett Youtube Channel.

My friends were chatting about the Bucket List at the party several years ago. Someone said to go to Venice to spend a month, others had some other ideas of exotic travels. I was asked what is in my mind. I wanted to say I want to play a good recital. I thought it was too serious at the moment so I did not answer it. Yes, performing Goldberg Variations is my bucket list. I put away the music of Goldberg for now, and will start practicing in December for January performances.