Download Variaciones concertantes (Concert Variations) for Orchestra, Op. 23

Variaciones concertantes (Concert Variations) for Orchestra, Op. 23 (1953)
Alberto Ginastera (1916 – 1983)
1. Theme for cello and harp
2. Interlude for strings
3. Giocoso (playful) Variation for flute
4. Scherzo (frolicsome) Variation for clarinet
5. Dramatic Variation for viola
6. Canonic Variation for oboe and bassoon
7. Rhythmic Variation for trumpet and trombone
8. Perpetual Motion Variation for violin
9. Pastoral Variation for French horn
10. Interlude for woodwinds
11. Theme for harp and double bass
12. Final Variation in the form of a Rondo for orchestra
Ginastera was a prominent twentieth-century Argentine composer. His
earliest compositions, into which he incorporated Argentine folk music,
comprise his “Objective Nationalism” phase. Next came his “Subjective
Nationalism” phase, in which he alluded to folk tradition through the use of
folk rhythms and melodies without actual quotation. Beginning in the 1950s,
he began the transition to twelve-tone composition. Most of his later works,
characterized by polytonality, include micro-intervals, e.g., quarter-tones.
Perhaps because of his heritage – his mother was Italian, Ginastera preferred
his surname to be pronounced as if it were Italian, i.e., with a soft “G”, rather
than the Spanish “Hinastera.”
Ginastera’s “Concert Variations” was commissioned by the Society of
Friends of Music in Buenos Aires. Igor Markevitch conducted the première in
Buenos Aires on June 2, 1953. The work has an Argentine flavor, but uses no
material of folk origin; its unique mood is created entirely through Ginastera’s
own themes and rhythms. The work is in 12 sections, which are performed
without interruption.
The theme, heard at the outset, is introduced by cello and harp, and the
variations that follow after a string interlude are all based on this theme. Each
variation features different orchestral instrumentation, and the character and
quality of the instrument(s) give each variation its characteristics.
The joyous nature of the Giocoso variation is imparted by the flute, while
the clarinet is responsible for the mood of the Scherzo. The Dramatic
Variation highlights the viola, while the following Canonic Variation features
the oboe and bassoon. The Rhythmic Variation, with prominent trumpet and
trombone, leads immediately into the Perpetual Motion for the violin. The
following contrasting Pastoral Variation presents the French horn. Next comes
an Interlude for woodwinds. The opening Theme, now with harp and double
bass, is then recalled, following which the whole orchestra presents the Final
Variation in the form of a Rondo.
© Ted Wilks, 1996