Variations and Fugue on a Theme by Handel

Johannes BrahmsOp. 24

RomanticWell-knowntheme-and-variationsfugueB-flat majorAria2/4~28 min
H8
Henle (estimated)
RCM 10

About this piece

This monumental set consists of twenty-five variations followed by a massive fugue based on a theme by Handel. It stands as one of the greatest examples of the variation form in the piano repertoire, demanding immense intellectual and technical depth.

Teacher notes

The player must maintain absolute control of polyphonic textures throughout the variations, culminating in the taxing and complex final fugue.

Technical focus

counterpointfinger-independencespeed-agilityvoicinglarge-chords

Mood

dramaticbrilliantintellectual

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Free sheet music on IMSLP

Pieces similar to Variations and Fugue on a Theme by Handel

Comparable difficulty and character — good candidates for what to learn next.

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Frequently asked questions

How hard is Variations and Fugue on a Theme by Handel (Op. 24) by Johannes Brahms?

Variations and Fugue on a Theme by Handel (Op. 24) is rated Henle level 8 of 9 — concert repertoire, roughly diploma level. In the RCM system it corresponds to about level 10.

What level do I need to play Variations and Fugue on a Theme by Handel?

You should be comfortable at Henle level 8 — meaning you can already play level 7–8 pieces cleanly. Learning it one level early is possible as a stretch piece, but more than that usually leads to months of frustration.

How long is Variations and Fugue on a Theme by Handel?

A typical performance of Variations and Fugue on a Theme by Handel (Op. 24) lasts about 28 minutes.

Where can I get free sheet music for Variations and Fugue on a Theme by Handel?

Variations and Fugue on a Theme by Handel (Op. 24) is available as free public-domain sheet music on IMSLP — the score is linked directly from this page.

What pieces are similar to Variations and Fugue on a Theme by Handel?

Pieces at a comparable difficulty and character include Rhapsody in G minor, No. 2 by Johannes Brahms, Hungarian Rhapsody No. 2 in C-sharp minor by Franz Liszt, Bourrée fantasque by Emmanuel Chabrier — see the full similar-pieces list on this page.