Variations on a Theme of Paganini (2007)

Andreas Willscher (b. 1955) — Variations on a Theme of Paganini (2007) for organ

Introduction
Theme
Variation 1
Variation 2: Moderato, poco adagio
Variation 3: Moderato
Variation 4
Variation 5
Variation 6: Allegro moderato
Variation 7: Sehr ruhig
Variation 8: Allegretto
Variation 9: Allegro moderato
Variation 10: Moderato
Variation 11: Toccata (Finale)

"Variations on a Theme of Paganini" (2007) is based on one of the most famous themes in classical music: the 24th solo violin caprice of virtuoso violinist and composer Niccolò Paganini (1782–1840). The Paganini work (written in the early 1800s) is itself a theme and variations, and many composers in the centuries since have used his memorable melody to write their own sets of variations. Some of these composers include Johannes Brahms, Sergei Rachmaninoff, Karol Szymanowski, Witold Lutosławski, Andrew Lloyd-Webber (his only significant instrumental piece), George Thalben-Ball, and many others. Willscher’s variations treat the tune in his own characteristically eclectic style. The Paganini melody is put through its paces, showing off many colors and textures of the organ.

Published by Dr. J. Butz Musikverlag in “Willscher: Orgelwerke, Band 2″