Mozart Twelve Variations on “Ah! vous dirai-je, maman,” K. 265 II Rachel Naomi Kudo, Piano

Mozart Twelve Variations on “Ah! vous dirai-je, maman,” K. 265
Recorded June 6, 2024
0:06 Theme
0:58 Variation 1
1:45 Variation 2
2:34 Variation 3
3:22 Variation 4
4:06 Variation 5
4:53 Variation 6
5:36 Variation 7
6:21 Variation 8
7:25 Variation 9
8:04 Variation 10
8:49 Variation 11
11:42 Variation 12
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Ah ! Vous dirai-je maman
Ce qui cause mon tourment?
Papa veut que je raisonne
Comme une grande personne
Moi je dis que les bonbons
Valent mieux que la raison.

Oh! Shall I tell you, Mama,
What is causing my torment?
Daddy wants me to reason
Like a big person,
But I say that candies,
Are worth more than reason!

Mozart’s Twelve Variations on “Ah vous dirai-je, Maman,” K. 265 (also known as the Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Star variations) was composed in 1781 or 1782 and is one of his most beloved sets of variations. Based on a popular French nursery tune, the piece demonstrates Mozart’s playful inventiveness and ability to transform a simple melody into a work of remarkable variety and complexity.

The variations begin with a straightforward presentation of the theme, followed by twelve contrasting transformations. Mozart explores a wide range of characters and textures, from light-hearted and lyrical passages to virtuosic, technically demanding episodes. He employs techniques such as ornamentation, contrapuntal writing, and dramatic dynamic shifts to keep each variation fresh and engaging. Highlights include a stately minor-key variation that adds a sense of drama, as well as a dazzling display of rapid passagework in the final variation. The piece culminates in a triumphant conclusion, bringing the whimsical journey to a satisfying close.

While it retains its playful charm, this set of variations also serves as a showcase for Mozart’s mastery of form and his extraordinary ability to captivate both performers and listeners.

© 2025 Rachel Naomi Kudo
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Engineer: Federico Furnaletto
Piano Technician: Tomislav Spasojevic
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