themeandvariation

Theme and variation is a musical form in which a central theme is presented and then altered in continuing sections called variations. Each variation preserves enough of the original material to be recognizable, while changes in melody, harmony, rhythm, tempo, timbre, or orchestration create new color and character. Variation sets may proceed in a stable sequence, with a closing variation returning to the mood of the theme, or may introduce gradual development.

Historically, the technique is prominent in Baroque and Classical music. Johann Sebastian Bach’s Goldberg Variations (c. 1741) demonstrate a wide range of variation techniques. In the Classical era, composers such as Mozart and Beethoven produced sets for keyboard and other ensembles; Beethoven’s Diabelli Variations (Op. 120) is notable for its breadth and structural ambition. Brahms also contributed Variations on a Theme by Haydn (Op. 56). The form remains productive in Romantic and later repertoire, and continues in modern composition, film scores, and jazz-based improvisation that adopts a theme-and-variations mentality.

Notes on structure: A variation set may number from few pieces to many; some variations emphasize virtuosity, others explore harmonic color or rhythmic play; sometimes the theme returns at the end, providing a final sense of unity.