Variations

Baroque works

Definition

A theme followed by a series of modifications — melodic, harmonic, rhythmic, textural, or character-based — each retaining some connection to the original while exploring new territory.

Historical Context

Theme and variations is one of the oldest compositional processes. Landmark piano sets include Beethoven's Diabelli Variations, Brahms's Handel Variations, and the Goldberg Variations of Bach. The form tests a composer's ingenuity and range while offering listeners the pleasure of transformation.

Works (30)

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