Composer

:

Mikhail Glinka

Genre

:

Keyboard

Style

:

Variations

Compose Date

:

1831

Publication Date

:

1831

Average_duration

:

10:34

Mikhail Glinka's 'Variazioni brillante on a theme from Donizetti's Anna Bolena, G. vi79' is a piano composition that was composed in 1838. The piece was premiered in St. Petersburg, Russia, on February 17, 1838, by the composer himself. The composition consists of a theme and six variations, with a coda at the end. The theme is taken from the aria "Piangete voi?...Al dolce guidami" from Gaetano Donizetti's opera Anna Bolena. Glinka's variations are characterized by their virtuosic piano writing, with rapid runs, arpeggios, and octave passages. The first variation is marked Allegro con fuoco and features a more elaborate version of the theme with added ornamentation. The second variation, marked Andantino, is a lyrical and expressive variation that contrasts with the previous one. The third variation, marked Allegro vivace, is a fast and lively variation that features rapid runs and arpeggios. The fourth variation, marked Andante, is a slower and more contemplative variation that features a more subdued piano writing. The fifth variation, marked Allegro moderato, is a playful and light-hearted variation that features a syncopated rhythm. The sixth variation, marked Allegro con brio, is a fast and energetic variation that features rapid octave passages. The coda at the end of the composition brings back the theme in a grand and triumphant manner, with added flourishes and ornamentation. Overall, Glinka's 'Variazioni brillante on a theme from Donizetti's Anna Bolena, G. vi79' is a virtuosic and expressive piano composition that showcases the composer's skill as a pianist and his ability to create variations on a theme.

More....