Franz Schubert - Theme & Variation Nº 1 from Impromptu Nº 3 (Op.142, D.935) arranged for classical guitar
This arrangement presents the theme and first variation from Schubert’s Impromptu No. 3, (Op. 142 / D.935/3) in a form that feels natural and expressive on the guitar.
The lyrical opening theme retains its vocal warmth, while the first variation - built on flowing broken‑chord textures - has been shaped to highlight the instrument’s clarity, resonance, and ability to project a singing melodic line.
The result is a piece that sits comfortably under the fingers and offers guitarists a direct, intimate way to explore the opening pages of one of Schubert’s most beloved keyboard works.
Franz Schubert’s Impromptu No. 3 in B‑flat major (Op. 142 / D.935/3) opens with one of his most tender, songlike themes, followed by a set of variations that explore shifting colors and characters. This guitar edition focuses on the theme and the first variation, adapting these opening pages into a version that feels expressive and lies comfortably on the instrument.
The arrangement preserves the warmth and vocal phrasing of the theme while shaping the first variation to suit the guitar’s natural resonance and clarity. The flowing broken‑chord textures translate naturally to the instrument, keeping the melodic line clear above an accompaniment that feels thoroughly idiomatic to the classical guitar. Careful attention to voicing and fingering helps the music speak with transparency, giving performers room to shape Schubert’s lyrical arc with ease.
This edition is ideal for players who appreciate Schubert’s intimate writing and want to explore the opening movement of this Impromptu through the color and nuance of the guitar.
Score: 3 pages
Preface, Legend & Performance notes: 5 pages
Below is a link to Youtube which will allow you to get an idea of what this piece sounds like on piano. (Performed by Maria João Pires, first 3:47 minutes)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=byDMne0wDT8&list=RDbyDMne0wDT8&start_radio=1
Over the coming months, I will be playing short excerpts from all pieces listed in this catalogue on classical guitar myself and post them on my Youtube channel, titled:
Michael De Baker Arrangements for Classical Guitar.
Thanks for tuning in. Wishing you much musical enjoyment and many rewarding hours with our instrument, the classical guitar.
Michael
Contact. If you’d like to reach out - whether about repertoire, arrangements, or upcoming projects - feel free to email me at mdebakerclassicalguitar@use.startmail.com