The five movements of Peter Coutsouridis' Variations and Themes for Four Timpani
are arranged in an arch form. Movements I and V are related both
thematically and in their meter of 7/4. Movements II and IV surround
the central third movement and are both in a slower tempo and in 4/4.
"I think of this piece as variations on four short motives and one longer melody that are all presented in the first movement (Themes). The second and fifth movements are variations on the short motives with hints of the longer melody. The fourth movement (Theme)
is a prolonged thematic statement of the longer melody found in the
first movement. The third and central movement is an interlude in a
quick 3/8 meter, which provides a dance-like contrast to the other
movements." - Peter Coutsouridis