This site introduces unknown Emanuel Bach (C. P. E. Bach).
Asked ChatGPT4o: “Please introduce outstanding variation works from the early Classical and Classical periods.”
Here are some excellent variation works from the early Classical and Classical periods.
C.P.E. Bach (Carl Philipp Emanuel Bach)
12 Variations on the Follia in D Minor, H. 263
This work is based on the theme of "La Folia," influenced by the Baroque period. It features C.P.E. Bachʼs characteristic free expression and improvisational style.
Johann Christian Bach
Variation in B-flat Major, Op. 5, No. 6
One of his piano works, showcasing elegant and delicate variations.
Joseph Haydn
Variations in F Minor, Hob. XVII:6
Also known as the "Variations in Sorrow," this piece demonstrates Haydnʼs profound emotional expression and masterful variation technique.
Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart
Twelve Variations on "Ah vous dirai-je, Maman", K. 265
Based on the famous children’s song "Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Star," this piece highlights Mozart’s playfulness and technical brilliance.
Ludwig van Beethoven
32 Variations in C Minor, WoO 80
A powerful and dramatic set of variations, showcasing Beethoven’s masterful use of counterpoint and dynamics.
Eroica Variations, Op. 35
These variations are based on the same theme as Beethoven’s Symphony No. 3 "Eroica" and display a remarkable diversity of musical ideas.
Franz Schubert
Impromptu in B-flat Major, Op. 142, No. 3 (D. 935)
This impromptu incorporates variation form, showcasing Schubert’s beautiful melodies and rich musical contrasts.
These variation works reflect the individuality and technical prowess of each composer. Especially in the piano solo repertoire, these works are popular in concerts and are frequently performed by many pianists.
“For which instrument was Haydn’s Variations in F Minor, Hob. XVII:6 composed?”
Joseph Haydn’s Variations in F Minor, Hob. XVII:6 was composed primarily for piano. This piece, also known as the "Variations in Sorrow," stands out among Haydn’s piano solo works for its rich emotional expression and deep sense of melancholy and beauty. It follows the variation form, presenting a theme followed by several variations.
If you are interested in variations for other instruments, please let me know.
“Was the theme of Haydn’s Variations in F Minor, Hob. XVII:6 composed by someone other than Haydn?”
The theme of Joseph Haydn’s Variations in F Minor, Hob. XVII:6 was composed by Haydn himself. The piece is based on Haydn’s original melody, reflecting his unique musical ideas. It was composed as a personal expression of emotion and is not based on a theme by another composer.
“Which of Haydn’s piano sonatas corresponds to the Sturm und Drang period?”
Haydn’s "Sturm und Drang" period refers to his works from the late 1760s to the early 1770s, characterized by passionate and dramatic expression. The following piano sonatas reflect this style:
Piano Sonata in C Minor, Hob. XVI:20
Notable for its intense and passionate first movement, this sonata embodies the Sturm und Drang style.
Piano Sonata in E-flat Major, Hob. XVI:52
Though composed later, this sonata contains dramatic and energetic passages influenced by the Sturm und Drang style.
Piano Sonata in G Minor, Hob. XVI:44
Its dark and dramatic tone is characteristic of the Sturm und Drang period.
“When was Haydn’s Variations in F Minor, Hob. XVII:6 composed?”
Joseph Haydn’s Variations in F Minor, Hob. XVII:6 was composed in 1793, after his second visit to England, during a period of prolific creativity.
“So, Variations in F Minor, Hob. XVII:6 does not belong to the Sturm und Drang period, correct?”
That is correct. The Variations in F Minor, Hob. XVII:6 was composed in 1793 and does not belong to Haydn’s Sturm und Drang period (late 1760s to early 1770s). This work reflects Haydn’s mature compositional technique and deep emotional expression, distinct from the Sturm und Drang style.
“Since Hob. XVII:6 is a set of variations, it seems freer in emotional expression than sonatas using sonata form. What do you think?”
You are correct. The Variations in F Minor, Hob. XVII:6 allows for freer emotional expression due to its relatively flexible structure. Variation form provides composers with the opportunity to creatively transform a theme through diverse rhythmic, harmonic, melodic, and textural changes.
“Could you tell me the composition dates of the variations in Haydn’s Hob. XVII?”
Hob. XVII Variations and Their Composition Dates:
Variations in C Major, Hob. XVII:2
Composed around 1765
Variations in E-flat Major, Hob. XVII:3
Composition date unknown
Variations in A Major, Hob. XVII:5
Composed around 1780
Variations in F Minor, Hob. XVII:6
Composed in 1793
Variations in C Major, Hob. XVII:7
Composed in 1795
These works reflect the evolution of Haydn’s compositional style throughout his career.