Abeille - Fantasia in A major, Op. 4

After a short pickup, measures 1–10 form a Largo introduction with dotted gestures, quick rising figures, and contrasting chordal replies. The Andante cantabile in measures 11–140 turns to a lilting 6/8 melody. Ornamented phrases pass between the hands, with chromatic runs, changing registers, and quieter held harmonies; measures 68–75 form a repeated episode.

Measures 141–156 introduce the Allegro theme in 2/4. Variation 1, measures 157–172, surrounds the tune with continuous legato running notes. Variation 2, measures 173–188, contrasts detached gestures with short flourishes, while Variation 3, measures 189–204, places moving figures beneath held upper notes.

Variation 4, measures 205–220, changes to Molto Adagio. Long ornamental runs alternate with expressive melodic fragments, chordal pauses, and a slower close. The music then proceeds directly into the Menuetto Allegro of Variation 5, measures 221–236. Its Trio, measures 237–252, brings a flowing upper melody and rubato ornaments; the printed da capo returns to the Menuetto before continuing.

Variation 6, measures 253–268, restores a brisk 2/4 flow in both hands. The Presto of Variation 7, measures 269–284, changes to 6/8 and emphasizes paired notes and lively changes of register. Measures 285–334 return to Tempo Primo, extend the running figures through changing harmonies, and settle into an Adagio link.

The Alla breve Finale begins at measure 335 with imitative exchanges between the hands. Flowing lines, repeated-note figures, held tones, and chordal responses develop the material. A two-measure rest at 438–439 precedes the quiet Adagio in 440–442; Tempo di prima resumes at 443. The closing passage, measures 504–509, carries a descending line into low repeated figures and the final sustained chords.