Abstract

This Thesis consists of two parts: the first part is the graduate recital, which includes the programs and program notes. The second part is the lecture recital, a research paper for discussing the study of three variations’ technique：Chaconne in G major of G. F. Händel, Theme and Variations of G. Fauré, and Passacaglia of A. Copland.

The lecture recital research paper comprises of six chapters. Chapter one is the motivation and purpose of the researcher. Chapter two defines the Variations, brings the various types of Variations, and gives a brief history of the Variations. Chapter Three to Chapter five discusses the Chaconne in G major of G. F. Händel, the Theme and Variations of G. Fauré, Passacaglia of A. Copland consequently each in a separate chapter. These three chapters address about the authors’ Biography, the background of these three pieces, analyze their three compositions and their composing technique. Chapter six concludes the research.

In the lecture recital we have chosen the two types of continuous variations in the Baroque period and the 20th century： Chaconne of G. F. Händel, Passacaglia of A. Copland. Another one is the Theme and Variations of G. Fauré, focusing on his mature composing technique. In this research paper we have discussed the various Variations technique to all the above mentioned programs, likewise analysis the different Variations technique in different periods and in different types.