Johannes Brahms ： Variations on an Original Theme in D-Dur Op.21-1

This set of variations, comprising a theme and 11 variations, condenses Brahms’s inventive spirit. Built on a poised and approachable theme, each variation takes on a different character through changes in the treatment of the melody, rhythm, harmony, and combinations of voices. The musical interest lies not only in its brilliant virtuosity but also in the movement of the inner parts and the conversational interplay between voices. In performance, it is important to preserve the outline of the theme while shaping articulation and tone color with subtle changes according to the character of each variation.