This is the second set of Bach Variations, following Op. 24 (composed in 1849). Variations in the 19th century can be broadly categorized into three types: those based on melodies from popular operas, those taking themes from works by past masters, and those using original themes. This work belongs to the second category and is one of the earliest pieces reflecting an aspect of the full-fledged Bach revival movement in the 19th century, spurred by the establishment of the Bach-Gesellschaft in the mid-century. His stylistic sensibility and assimilative capacity in resurrecting Bach through the modern piano in the 19th century surpassed even Mendelssohn's, creating the sensation of listening to a Bach original. The theme is taken from the second Passepied of Bach's French Overture in suite form. A cadenza and coda follow the eighth variation. Dedicated to his friend, the composer C. G. Grädener (1812–1883). (Yasushi Ueda)

Structure

• THEMA Allegretto B major
• Var.1 Un poco più animato B major
• Var.2 Un poco più Lento B minor
• Var.3 L’istesso tempo D major
• Var.4 Più lento G major
• Var.5 Più mosso B major
• Var.6 Maestoso B major
• Var.7 Più lento G-sharp minor
• Var.8 L’istesso tempo B major