Variations on a Theme by Anton Bruckner for piano solo Op.19 (1986) c.13'30"

I. Tema - Adagio
II. Scherzando e leggiero
III. Presto volante
IV. Mesto
V. Adagio
VI. Moderato
VII. Presto feroce
VIII. Lento rubato
IX. Adagio
X. Adagissimo

Dedicated to Erika Nickrenz

First performed on June 3rd, 1987 at the Spoleto Festival in Charleston, South Carolina by Erika Nickrenz

ABOUT

The idea for writing the Variations on a Theme by Anton Bruckner Op.19 goes as far back as 1982, when I came across a reproduction of the manuscript of the Bruckner theme in an old biography of the composer. Written in 1847 and entitled "Aequali," the theme was originally a liturgical processional for three trombones. It is notable for its sliding chromaticism and, rare for Bruckner, the asymmetric phrasing at the end. At the time I found the theme, I wrote a few sketches for variations and then put them aside. It was not until 1986, when pianist Erika Nickrenz asked for a new work, that I re-examined the long-dormant sketches and finally completed the piece. (Of those early sketches, the only ones retained are now the opening of the third variation and the closing measures of the work.) Ms. Nickrenz gave the work its world premiere at the Spoleto Festival in Charleston, South Carolina in 1987.

            The Variations utilize the melody of the theme in various permutations, embellishments and fragmentations. Of particular interest are: the seventh variation, whose lyrical melody is, note for note, the theme backwards; and the final variation, which incorporates references to the first movement of Bruckner's Seventh Symphony, a work which has always held special meaning for me. It should also be noted that the tonal sequence of the variations is determined by the harmonic progression of the theme, a formal procedure I first used in my Symphony Op.9.

RECORDINGS

REVIEWS

“The many variations of the dark, brooding theme were colorful…composer and pianist were applauded at length for their fine work.”
The Evening Post, Charleston, SC

“Liebermann’s set of variations displays a large array of 20th century compositional techniques and is as intellectually stimulating to follow…as it is exciting to hear.”
The News and Courier, Charleston, SC

”..a fascinating set of nine variations…one left it wishing for a second chance to hear the music.”
The News and Courier, Charleston, SC