Theme and Variations

 

Level:            All

 

Purpose:       To learn about this form of music

To help younger students understand what is meant by “Twinkle Variations”

To create original music

 

Set-up:         We are going to learn about the form of music called Theme and Variations

Sing and play Twinkle, Twinkle Little Star

This is the original melody – the “Theme”

 

Does anyone know the meaning of the words “variation” or “to vary”?

To vary is to change, alter, transform, or expand upon

 

Play Twinkle Variation A

How is this different from the Theme?

 

Suzuki created five variations all using the same notes with different rhythmic patterns

 

 

Activities:

 

(1)       Divide the class and play each variation (or part of it) along with the theme

Can anyone think of another variation of Twinkle?

 

(2)       Create a class Theme and Variations through movement

Arrange the class in a circle

Learn a simple dance-the theme

Go around and have everyone create a variation

 

(3)       Create a class Theme and Variations on the violin

Choose a short theme such as the beginning of Frere Jacque or Lightly Row

Go around, giving everyone a chance to contribute a variation

Choose some or use all of the variations created, name them (for example, Variation A or Mandy’s variation) and learn them as a group

Make a recording of your new composition

 

(4)       Listen to examples of Theme and Variations such as La Folia or

Mozart’s 12 Variations in C Major K 265 (Twinkle)