Composer

:

Johann Nepomuk Hummel

Genre

:

Keyboard

Style

:

Variations

Publication Date

:

ca. 1804

Average_duration

:

17:09

Johann Nepomuk Hummel composed his 'Variations on a march from Dalayrac's Les deux Savoyards, Op. 15' in 1804. The piece premiered in Vienna in the same year, with Hummel himself performing on the piano. The composition consists of a theme and six variations, with a coda to conclude the piece. The theme is a march from the opera Les deux Savoyards by François-Adrien Boieldieu and Nicolas Dalayrac. Hummel's variations showcase his virtuosic piano technique, with each variation featuring different technical challenges for the performer. The first variation is a simple embellishment of the theme, while the second variation features rapid arpeggios and runs. The third variation is a lyrical and expressive adagio, followed by a playful and light-hearted fourth variation. The fifth variation is a dramatic and intense minor key section, while the sixth variation is a lively and energetic finale. Hummel's 'Variations on a march from Dalayrac's Les deux Savoyards, Op. 15' is a prime example of the variation form popular in the classical era. The piece showcases Hummel's technical prowess on the piano, as well as his ability to create a cohesive and engaging musical narrative through variations on a simple theme. The composition is also notable for its use of contrasting moods and textures, from the lyrical adagio to the dramatic minor key variation. Overall, Hummel's 'Variations on a march from Dalayrac's Les deux Savoyards, Op. 15' is a masterful example of the variation form, showcasing the composer's technical and musical abilities on the piano. The piece remains a popular choice for pianists today, and is a testament to Hummel's enduring legacy as a composer and performer.

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