Theme and Variation Assignment



Using the compositional techniques found in Mozart's Variations K. 265, compose two variations on the minuet theme by Duport that I handed out in class. Keep the following points in mind when composing your variations:
  1. The first eight measures of Duport's minuet may be subdivided into two nearly identical four-measure sub-phrases. Your variations should reflect this feature of the minuet.
  2. Both variations should retain the basic shape or preserve one distinguishing feature of the original tune.
  3. Recall some of the rhythmic techniques that Mozart used to vary the theme.
  4. It is possible, desirable even, to simplify and vary the accompaniment as well.
Review Mozart, K. 265: Variations on "Ah, vous dirai-je, Maman"

(Twinkle Twinkle Little Star")
  1. Variation 1 (4 against 1)
  2. Variation 3 (3 against 1 or "triplet" variation)
  3. Variation 5 (rhythmic variation with simplified texture
  4. Variation 9 (imitative 4-part vocal style)