Chorale Variations
On a Theme in Ancient Style
Chorale Variations consists of six variations on an original chorale-like theme. The work was commissioned by the Stichting Culturele Activiteiten Opsterland (Cultural Activities Foundation Opsterland). It is dedicated to the chairman and founder, Germ Nicolaï, as a token of thanks for his commitment of many years to the wind music movement in the Dutch province of Friesland. Nicolaï was the manager of the Spijkerpakkenband (‘Denim Suit Band’) and the Friese Jeugd Brassband (Frisian Youth Brass Band) – among other things. He was also the initiator of the successful Gouden Spiker Festival, an annual event of several days for lower division wind bands. In 2015, Chorale Variations was the test piece at this festival.