Relayed from the National Museum of Wales
National Orchestra of Wales
(Cerddorfa Genedlaethol Cymru)
Theme and Variations is the second movement of Glazounov's sixth Symphony, and takes the place of the customary slow movement. The theme, a very simple tune, is played by the strings. The first variation, slightly quicker, simply sets forth the tune with a fuller and more elaborate accompaniment, and the second, a little livelier, transforms it into a dainty dance movement with three quick beats in the bar. The oboes begin the melody here. Variation three is called 'Scherzino,' a little Scherzo (or Jest). The rhythm is in 6-8 and flutes have the first share of the merry tune made of the original theme, the whole orchestra joining in it later. A short Fugato is the fourth variation, in a slow tempo, played softly and with a sense of mystery. The violoncello begins the theme, followed in turn by second violin, clarinet and first violin.
Number five is also in quiet mood, a Nocturne, of which the clarinet begins the melody. The sixth returns to a more vigorous rhythm. Oboes and clarinets join, to play versions of the theme over a tremulous accompaniment from the upper strings. This movement is worked out at some length and there is a short, silent pause before the last begins. Up to this point the variations have succeeded one another without breaks. The seventh and final variation begins with an impressive statement of the theme by the brasses, and from that a movement is built up in which the theme often seems to disappear, although fragments of it are almost always being played by one or other of the orchestral groups.
(to 14.00)
