Variations on a Theme by Tchaikovsky (Arensky)

After Tchaikovsky's theme is heard, the piece has seven Variations followed by a Coda, set out as follows (mostly in the key of E minor): • Theme, Moderato • Variation I, Un poco più mosso - • Variation II, Allegro non troppo - Starting with a sudden chord, the theme is heard in the lower strings. • Variation III, Andantino tranquillo - Now in E major, the theme is taken up by the first violins. • Variation IV, Vivace - This is a lively movement dominated by the offbeat pizzicato • Variation V, Andante • Variation VI, Allegro con spirito • Variation VII, Andante con moto • Coda: Moderato - This is a reprise of the theme, with harmonics in the first 2 measures. ==See also==