Press
The critics on Goldberg Variations / Variations
On his new CD, Goldberg Variations/Variations, Mr. Tepfer not only enters what to many pianists is hallowed ground — he leaves his self-assured footprints all over. His jazz roots show through in the crisp articulation and rhythmic clarity of his counterpoint, in his glass-sharp attack and, above all, in his supple approach to time... He builds a bridge across centuries and genres to spark a dialogue with Johann Sebastian Bach.
—Corinna Da Fonseca-Wollheim, Wall Street Journal
The album presents Bach's Goldberg Variations in sequence, played with classical fidelity; but after each variation comes an improvised response. At times Mr. Tepfer recasts the harmony, tending to mood and hue; elsewhere he goes in for faintly comic departures, making a sport of transposition. It's an impressive feat, an act of scholarly mischief that keeps coming back to a hearty and abiding respect.
—Nate Chinen, New York Times
CRITIC'S PICK: On his latest album, the 29-year-old pianist not only had the audacity to play Bach's Goldberg Variations — he improvised on them. The results are elegant, thoughtful, and thrilling.
—Eric Benson, New York Magazine
In a ballsy move that resounds with an unabashed yen for balance, the insightful pianist concocts a freeprov ditty for each of Bach's most famous miniatures on the new Goldberg Variations/Variations. On the classical side, the 60 tracks are a blend of grace and power. On the jazz side, they're built with daring and elan. It's easy to respect both.
—Jim Macnie, Village Voice
One of the more audacious, accomplished recordings of 2011.
—Ted Panken, Downbeat
Fantastic... An ingenious, thoroughly modern adaptation... I've spent weeks going back to this album, and it's provided renewable pleasures and fresh discoveries each time.
—Peter Margasak, Chicago Reader
A fascinating and engrossing listen... [Tepfer] meets exhilaration with exhilaration... A huge and unique success.
—Peter Hum, Ottawa Citizen