Based on the aria "Ein Mädchen oder Weibchen" from The Magic Flute, this set of 12 variations, in F, was written at about the same time as Beethoven's variations on Handel, WoO 45, but are far more compelling and important, particularly the last three. Variation ten in F minor is so far evolved and structured that it could stand alone as a slow movement to a sonata, and the 12th is a highly effective, charming fantasia. The most advancement, however, is shown in the 11th variation, which is so Romantic and sweeping it could be mistaken for the music of Mendelssohn or Schubert.

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