The Art of Variation

Variations have been one of the most enduring musical forms and have inspired creativity from centuries of musicians. The limitations set by repeating forms paradoxically give way to unbound inventiveness. In "The Art of Variation," Accademia de' Dissonanti presents an unusual program of research, exploration, composition, and improvisation that corresponds to the most recent innovations in eighteenth-century performance practice. It is well known that in the 18th century, most performers also composed (for their own instrument or for the ensembles in which they worked), and that elements of improvisation were an integral part of musical practice. Some sonatas have a short theme, followed by a set of variations, others are repeating bass lines that give rise to composed and improvised variations, while others are melodies varied through the performer's musical voice. Whatever the type, varying music is an art that delights the listener with virtuosic gestures and resourceful melodies. Accademia de' Dissonanti performs these ever-changing variations with violins, cello, and harpsichord through celebrated music by Corelli, Leo, Vivaldi, Tartini, and Dall'Abaco as well as newer compositions by Nicola Canzano and artistic director, Elinor Frey.