Variations on a Theme of Mozart, Op. 9, Op. 9

Fernando Sor's Variations on a Theme of Mozart, Op. 9 (c. 1821) — based on the aria "Das klinget so herrlich" from Die Zauberflöte — is the most celebrated set of guitar variations from the Classical era and a touchstone of the repertoire since its publication. Sor (1778–1839) was the supreme guitarist-composer of his day and a master of the variation form, and this Op. 9 set — six variations of increasing brilliance framed by a slow introduction and a sparkling coda — is a perfect demonstration of his ability to combine elegant melody, idiomatic figuration, and Classical formal logic. The work was famously recorded by Andrés Segovia and remains a staple of both student and professional recitals.