Variations sur un thème de Clément Jannequin

Jehan Alain used the 16th century melody from a chanson by Clément Jannequin which he called a 'jewel'. The text of the chanson has five sections which are reflected in Alain's structure for the piece - A,A',B,C,A"

A - 'Affetuoso'
My hope of entering into your favour
A' - 'Maggiore'
and enjoying the prize I am after
B - 'Fugato'
keeps me in suspense as I await your sympathy;
C - 'Grave'
but if you don't respond,
A" - stylized version of A (final 12 bars)
I shall, I shall give up loving you.

Alain had been influenced by a renewed interest in classical French styles and also by playing the untouched 1674 Ingoult organ in the church of Saint-Sauveur, Le Petit-Andely. He performed the work twice, in Saint-Germain-en-Laye (1937) and at La Trinité, Paris (1938). This concert included choral works by Alain, Daniel-Lesur and Messiaen with Messiaen performing four movements from 'La Nativité'. Alain perfomed his 'Le jardin suspendu' and 'Litanies'.

His original manuscripts exist and contain his registrations for both concerts. His use of the Pedal Soubasse 16' is clearly marked for the final notes of each variation.

In manuscripts associated with his "Jannequin, op.13", Alain wrote; 'Music of the twentieth century must be able to aspire to the same great freshness as that found in Jannequin's music. New means of expression should directly continue the French tradition of grace without sentimentality and strength without inflexibiliy'.