Variationen über das „Heidenröslein“ (Goethe)

This composition is an attempt to develop the components (parameters) of Goethe’s poem Heidenröslein in a series of variations or layers.

1 rhythm, 2 tone (lute), 3 atmosphere (lyrical poetry), 4 drama

The four final variations (5–8) are based on the setting of the same text by the young Schubert which in my opinion is simply perfect – it cannot be improved upon! In spite of this, I have incorporated material from my previous variations into the Schubert sections. May the richness of Goethe’s text and Schubert’s music thus complement and enhance each other (Perhaps I have undertaken too much?).

Dieter Schnebel, Berlin, 15 February 2018