Ginastera, Alberto: Variaciones Concertantes op. 23 (1953) 24'
for chamber orchestra

Scoring
2(II=picc).1.2.1-2.1.1.0-timp-harp-strings

World Premiere
6/2/1953
Buenos Aires
Asociacion de la Musica Orchestra / Igor Markevitch


Composer's Notes  
These variations have a subjective Argentine character. Instead of using folkloristic material, I try to achieve an Argentine atmosphere through the employment of my own thematic and rhythmic elements. The work begins with an original theme followed by eleven variations, each one reflecting the distinctive character of the instrument featured. All the instruments of the orchestra are treated soloistically. Some variations belong to the decorative, ornamental or elaborative type, others are written in the contemporary manner of metamorphosis, which consists of taking elements of the main theme and evolving from it new material.

Alberto Ginastera

Reproduction Rights
This programme note can be reproduced free of charge in concert programmes with a credit to the composer