Description

This work is called Variations since the overall approach to the form is akin to a theme with a series of sections that are related …to the theme, however these variations employ a wide assortment of methods to connect with the theme including many different melodic and harmonic linkages. Osborne refers to the composer and double bass player Tony Osborne (1947-2019) in whose memory the work is written. His name has eleven letters which are converted from his name to a melodic theme. A method was devised to convert these letters, TONYOSBORNE, into a series of pitches that are used for the initial appearance of the central theme of the work. Some of the pitches are repeated in different octaves in the initial statement to enhance the melodic contour. The purpose in using this conversion for the basic theme, which permeates the whole work in diverse ways, is to make the memory of Tony an integral influence on the essence of the work.
[Armand Russell]