Performed by pianist Joong Han Jung at his recital in the Music Theatre at the University of Auckland, 14 May 2018.
Joong Han Jung Photo: RNZ/Tim Dodd
Ferruccio Busoni's transcription of Bach's Chaconne from the Violin Partita No 2 in D minor is one of the virtuoso masterpieces of the piano repertoire. It's the most well-known of his several transcriptions from Bach.
In his book, Sketch of a New Esthetic of Music, Busoni explained his thoughts on the transcription process: "Every [musical] notation is, in itself, the transcription of an abstract idea. The instant the pen seizes it, the idea loses its original form."
He's suggesting, it seems, that even Bach was transcribing the idea in his head into a series of physical actions to be taken by a violinist.
Joong Han Jung, in his programme note, writes: "Busoni, by attempting to reinterpret this masterpiece, took possession of an idea and found new nuances and colors that are specific to the piano."
Recorded for RNZ Concert by Tim Dodd.
