Responding Variations
Kevin McCarter
About this work:
The theme of Responding Variations is played by the viola alone. The theme feels open-ended, as if it concludes with a question. The variations offer a series of responses, each with its own perspective and character. The first variation begins as a response from the oboe, with the viola joining after the first phrase. The variations draw on details of rhythm or melody from the theme, developing new figures from them. The last two variations add an element of reprise. The next to last variation recalls some of the second variation and expands on it. The concluding variation recalls phrases from the theme and the oboe's initial response to it.
Year composed:
Duration: 00:06:15
Ensemble type: Chamber or Jazz Ensemble, Without Voice:Other Combinations, 2-5 players
Instrumentation: 1 Oboe, 1 Viola