Johann Sebastian Bach's Goldberg Variations has become an iconic monument in Western music. On one level, it's simply a beautiful keyboard work, and on another, it's a Rubik's Cube of invention and architecture.

From its apocryphal back story (based on a count's sleepless nights), to its labyrinthine structure, to the breakthrough recording by Glenn Gould, the Goldbergs carry a heavy load of compelling baggage. MORE