In his choice of the title La Follia, Krzysztof Penderecki recalls the tradition of virtuosic variations on a Sarabande originating from the Baroque period. The theme is introduced first in pizzicato, then arco, and is developed in nine variations which exploit the full range of playing techniques on the violin. The breakneck speed of double stopping passages, artificial harmonics, extensive melodic arcs, sparkling arpeggios over all four strings, flying spiccato, and broken chords above the ostinato theme make high musical and technical demands on the performer.
