Marais a 17th-Century composer and Bass Viol player wrote these variations for the specific purpose of having them transcribed for other instruments. The theme they were based on was very well-known at the time and is probablyof Portugese origin but has a 'typical Spanish flavour' - evoking the proud attitude and striking stage prescence of a Spanish dancer. These twenty four short variations vary widely in character though the interpretation of eachis left largely to the performer's judgement.
