This is an two part arrangement of Beethoven’s Theme and Variations on a Swiss Air WoO 64 for 2 violas introducing players to the elements of Classical style and more particularly to Beethoven’s compositional approach. The simple theme needs to be clearly articulated and played with a detached but not staccato articulation. The WoO is short for Work without Opus Number and there are many jewels to be found in this category of work by Beethoven. A tempo of 132 quarter note beats to the minute is recommended for the playing of the theme and variations whilst variations 2 & 3 need to be played at a slightly slower tempo 120 quarter note bpm. Accompaniments are in place available for both viola 1 viola 2 enabling string players to practice their parts in preparation for a performance. In the accompaniments each variation is given a short tempo click of three beats to enable accurate tempi are played. There are some octave transpositions in the parts to keep to a convenient range for the instruments.
