Music GCSE
Theme and variations
What Theme and variations means in Music GCSE, as defined for Pearson Edexcel.
Definition of Theme and variations
Check what you remember
Read the wording for your board, then hide it and explain Theme and variations in your own words. Rough notes are fine. This is a self-check, with no mark or grade.
Reference: Pearson Edexcel
States a melody then reshapes it through changes of rhythm, harmony, texture, ornamentation or mode.
Topics that use Theme and variations
- Component 2: Composing - Brief 1: Instrumental Music 1700–1820 (Pearson Edexcel GCSE)
Related terms
- Binary form
- Extension of melodic material
- Harmonising a given melody
- Motivic working
- Repetition and variation
- Rondo
- Ternary form
Using Theme and variations in the exam
Check the command word and mark scheme for your exact question. After comparing your explanation with the reference, use the term in an answer on the linked topic. This practice does not predict an exam mark.
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