This substantial work by Egbert Juffer is a set of 4 Variations on an original Theme in F minor. Written in July/August 2022 as part of an exam portfolio of compositions for which Egbert Juffer was awarded the Associate diploma in Composition from the Victoria College of Music and Drama, London, it opens with a sombre Theme (♩ = c. 88) followed by four contrasting Variations. Rhythmic drive, colourful harmonies, and imaginative registration changes give each Variation its own character. A rewarding recital piece that demonstrates variety and depth within a compact structure.

On July 11th, 2024, American organist Carson Cooman released a recording of this work as part of his ongoing online project showcasing organ repertoire by 20th- and 21st-century composers. He described it as “expressive and sombre music with a tragic/sad atmosphere. A slow, chorale-like theme is followed by four variations. Unlike most variation pieces, where the variations explore widely contrasting moods, the sad atmosphere remains throughout. Thus instead of changes of pace, the variations re-imagine the thematic material in terms of melody and texture, while keeping the mood consistent.”

✔ Expressive Theme and Variations – Suitable for concert and recital programming, this is an expressive work, with a Chorale-like Theme, re-imagining the material through the Variations.

✔ Clear engraving – 8 pages of music notation presented within an 8-page publication, with clear manual and registration directions.

🟡🟠 Difficulty level – Intermediate/Advanced

⏱️ Performance time – Performance time approximately 6-7 minutes.

Organ score in PDF format. © 2022 EJ Music Publishing Ltd. All rights reserved; purchase licenses you to play from the copy but not to reproduce or distribute it. Catalogue No.: EJMP03023