32 WoO 80 Variations
BEETHOVEN

Dated in 1806, the 32 variations on an original theme in C minor (WoO 80) for piano by Ludwig van Beethoven constitute both a grand concert piece and a remarkable study. Only Beethoven was able to write an eight-bar theme that was as melodically and harmonically powerful. The variations of eight measures each follow one another with vigor without interruption and offer a true digest of Beethoven's piano technique. It gives the impression of an ardent passacaille. Only the last variation, a little longer, freely closes the whole like a final.