ABSTRACT
Macrostructures are understood as larger sections, the modifications of which have a direct effect on the shape of a work as a whole. This chapter considers all variation forms, including the Berceuse, the theme of which, although merely a short, four-bar period, constitutes the sole basis for the whole of the work. The techniques of variation mentioned earlier are the principal ones used by the composer, bearing in mind that variations are built through changes to different elements of a work. The variational changes in the Ballade in F minor involve precisely changes to texture, which in successive variations displays features specific to completely different genres, for which it acts like a sign. Variation technique also guarantees the fluidity of the work, despite the changes in expression and the different generic references. In both the late ballades, the variational changes and the accompanying transformation of themes are even more extensive.
