Symphonic Variations

The opening theme of Symphonic Variations, stated in a Maestoso unison, provides the musical kernel for the entire work. The composer cleverly exploits all the rhythmic possibilities inherent within the chosen theme to provide a piece which is serious enough for detailed study and Festival usage, yet entertaining at the same time.

Genre: Band | # of Players: Standard
Level: 3.5 | Duration: 6:00

Instrumentation
1st Flute
2nd Flute
1st Oboe
2nd Oboe*
1st Bb Clarinet
2nd Bb Clarinet
3rd Bb Clarinet
Eb Alto Clarinet*
Bb Bass Clarinet*
1st Bassoon
2nd Bassoon*
1st Eb Alto Saxophone
2nd Eb Alto Saxophone*
Bb Tenor Saxophone*
Eb Baritone Saxophone*

1st/2nd F Horn
3rd/4th* F Horn
1st Bb Cornet
2nd Bb Cornet
3rd Bb Cornet
1st Bb Trumpet
2nd Bb Trumpet
1st Trombone
2nd Trombone*
Bass Trombone
Euphonium
(TC Baritone)
Tuba

String Bass*

Timpani
Percussion 1 (xylophone)
Percussion 2 (suspended cymbal, triangle, snare drum, bass drum, hi hat)

Parts marked with as asterisk (*) are NOT ESSENTIAL, although their presence will obviously enable a fuller realization of the composer's intentions to be achieved.

Program Notes
Symphonic Variations was commissioned by Swindon Young Musicians' Club with funds provided by the W H Smith Arts Programme, and first performed by Swindon Young Musicians, conducted by Bramwell Tovey, at the Wyvern Theatre on January 29, 1989.

The opening theme, stated in a Maestoso unison, provides the musical kernel for the entire work. The composer cleverly exploits all the rhythmic possibilities inherent within the chosen theme to provide a piece which is serious enough for detailed study and Festival usage, yet entertaining at the same time.