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

35Five Variations: Rhythmic ElementsVariation I.The first variation is primarily set in 3/2 time and grouped into twosets of three quarter notes per measure. The most significant changes in harmony takeplace at the beginning of measures, but harmonic emphasis is placed on the groupings ofthree. The third section of the first variation develops as a rhythmic variation on themelody, creating energy that subsides near the end of the variation:isy^NsTb-»~£mmm££mk «>*Ex. 23: Bass clarinet, measures 77 through 80Variation II.Rhythm is important to distinguish this variation from others, thoughitdoes not play an active role in development. Octave unisons take place on pulsingquarter notes, striding forward and serving as an accompaniment. The melody is writtenin whole notes; the absence of rhythmic complexity produces a different character thanthe surrounding variations.Pm_Q_3EO*ffisfzsfz sfzsttzEx. 24: Measures 92 through 97