Programme 89: Beethoven and Brahms Variations. Programme

Loading player...
Today we are continuing our exploration of the influence of Beethoven on later composers, especially Brahms, by listening to some compositions of each, which are in the popular category of Theme and Variations.

Three sets are by Beethoven, based on God Save the King, Rule Britannia, and one of his themes.

The other major work today is Brahms’ Theme and Variations on a theme of Handel’s.

This, along with my comments are designed to give you an insight into this centuries old structure, popular with audiences, composers and performers alike for hundreds of years!
17 Mar 2025 English South Africa Music · Music History
Star episode

Other recent episodes

Programme 123: about Music- The Art of Listening: Musical Fingerprints Part 2

In the next programme in the series “about Music”, we are looking at Musical Fingerprints Part 2, following on from Part 1 of last week. What are these? These are the unique characteristics of individual composers, periods of music, musical styles and specific compositional types, that an observant listener will…
2 Nov 59 min

Programme 121 - The Tuba Moves from the Back Row to Centre Stage

Usually heard providing a powerful foundation from the back of the orchestra, the tuba rarely gets the chance to stand in the spotlight. In this programme, that changes. Discover an instrument capable of far more than weight and depth. The tuba can sing with warmth, move with astonishing agility, and…
28 Sep 1 hour

Programme 120 The Trombone — Concertos Through the Centuries

More Than Meets the Ear Bold, brilliant and unmistakable — but how well do we really know the trombone? Join Brian as we follow this remarkable instrument across more than two centuries, from the elegant alto trombone of Albrechtsberger to the dazzling virtuosity of the modern instrument. Along the way,…
21 Sep 57 min