The new works in Variations Down the Line were jointly co-commissioned by JAM, ReSoundings and the Hinrichsen Foundation. It presents Bach’s epic Goldberg Variations interwoven with 21st century responses written by five acclaimed living composers. The concert will be presented in two sections. This filmed concert was made in collaboration between the Hurst Festival and JAM on the Marsh

In the first part you will hear the first half of Bach’s Goldberg Variations (nos. 1-15) with two sets of three variations composed by Samuel Becker and Julian Broughton.

In the second part you will hear the second half of Bach’s Goldberg Variations (nos. 16-30) with three sets of three variations composed by Nicola Lefanu, Michael Finnissy and Alison Kay. Rachel will introduce the performance with a short talk about the project and about the work as a whole. Rachel will be available online after the performance to answer any questions.

Rachel Fryer is in demand both as soloist and accompanist, performing in venues throughout Sussex. She is Founder and Concert Director of Music and Wine at St. Luke's, Brighton and teaches piano at the East Sussex Academy of Music in Lewes. In addition to recital work, Rachel has performed for the Brighton Philharmonic Chamber music series and worked with Glyndebourne Youth Opera, Orchestra of Sound and Light and Kidenza. Beyond Sussex, Rachel has performed at other venues and for other music societies as well as on luxury cruise liners.

Rachel began performing Bach's Goldberg Variations in 2012 and began work on Variations Down the Line in 2015. It was premiered in July at JAM festival in Kent, delivered via an online festival. Rachel lives in Newhaven with her husband and 6 year old daughter.