Zdenka Variations (Zdenčiny variace), JW 8/6

Seven variations on an original theme in B♭ minor, composed 1880 during Janáček's studies in Leipzig. Written for his future wife Zdenka Schulzová. The work follows models including Mendelssohn and Tchaikovsky but already shows Janáček's individuality in rhythm and phrase construction. His earliest significant preserved piano work and the only substantial piece from his student years to survive.