Twelve Variations on Ah vous dirai-je, Maman

Keep the tune in view

The theme is a useful listening guide through these twelve variations. First play its plain melody and bass, noticing where each half comes to rest. Then follow the same outline as the surface changes: flowing right-hand figures in the first variation, a busier left hand in the second, and contrasting textures beyond.

Give each variation its own character

Henle editor Dominik Rahmer highlights the calm melody above the active left hand in Variation II. Try keeping that distinction audible even at a slow practice tempo. Do not let the faster notes dictate every accent. The Adagio of Variation XI needs a different sense of space from the final Allegro in triple metre. Practise their transition as well as each variation separately, so the complete set has both contrast and continuity.

Music in this edition

1. Twelve Variations on Ah vous dirai-je, Maman