An Analytical and Educational Survey of Howard Hanson's Dies ...

24Variation III is marked andante calmo, nelmodo Gregohano, quarter note equals60, and is composed in mixed meter of 2/4 and 3/8. This variation is characterized by itsGregorian chant-like solo voices that create a polyphonic setting of the melody. The useof mixed meter contributes to a calm, lilting feel of this variation. Hanson's choices inorchestration create an interesting texture as well. A shift from Aeolian mode to Phrygianmode at the end of the variation foreshadows the minor second interval prevalent in thefollowing variation.Variation IV, labeled allegro feroce at quarter note equals 152, is the mosttechnically challenging section of the work. This variation is characterized by theemphasis on the tritone and minor second, the syncopated accents of the melody, and thecontinuous sixteenth-note accompaniment. The sixteenth notes create a sense of urgencythat propels this variation forward.The final variation, Variation V, is marked larghetto semplice at quarter noteequals 60, creating stark contrast from the previous variation in tempo and style.Instrumentation and dynamics are much lighter as well. The eighth-note melody ispresented in canon by solo instruments; the melody has a sense of flow proffered by thesetting of this variation in simple triple meter.