Originally the final movement of Bach’s Partita No. 2 for Solo Violin, Busoni’s piano transcription is a monumental feat of architecture. It transforms the single-line violin part into a massive, orchestral-sounding work for ten fingers while maintaining the relentless repetition of the 4-bar harmonic progression.
While originally for the organ, piano transcriptions (notably by Eugen d’Albert or Max Reger) capture the "relentless, repeating bass line" that defines the form. The work begins with the bass theme alone, building into 20 complex variations that exemplify the "architectural heights" you enjoy.
This is perhaps the most famous keyboard Passacaglia. It is high-energy and increasingly virtuosic. While written for harpsichord, it translates perfectly to the modern piano's dynamic range.
A masterclass in the Basso Ostinato technique. Handel takes a simple 8-bar bass theme and subjects it to 62 increasingly complex variations, showcasing how much variety can be squeezed from a single repeating pattern.
As noted, Purcell is the "king" of the repeating bass line. This shorter work is deeply melancholic and utilizes the same ground bass technique found in "Music for a While". It is a perfect choice for those who prefer a "slower, more meditative tempo".
From his Pièces de clavecin, this work is famously dark and intense. Unlike the Italian style, French Passacaglias often use a "Rondeau" form, where the main theme (the Grand Couplet) returns periodically between different variations.
These pieces rely on the specific Baroque structures you've identified in your favorites:
Ground Bass (Basso Ostinato): A short, recurring melodic pattern in the bass that serves as the foundation for the entire composition.
Walking Bass: Similar to the "Air on the G String," many of these arrangements utilize steady, octave-moving bass lines to create "inevitable forward motion".
Chains of Suspensions: Especially in the slower variations of Bach and Purcell, you will hear the "tension and release" created by holding notes over into new chords.
Would you like to explore the technical differences between how a "Chaconne" and a "Passacaglia" are constructed, or are you looking for specific sheet music recommendations for these piano arrangements?