Variations on ‘Was Lebet’ selected for UK Regionals Contest

Variations on Was Lebet has been selected as the set-test piece for the 2026 UK Regionals contests. Based on the German chorale 'Was Lebet' (O worship the Lord in the beauty of holiness), the work, made up of five contrasting variations, was written in 2017.

These include a majestic opening followed by giocoso first variation, a reflective second variant and a quirky, volatile third. There is a romantic feel to the following fourth variation, with a playful waltz whilst variation 5 is fugal in nature, leading to a grand presentation of the original theme.

Variations on Was Lebet was recorded by the International Staff Band, conducted by Dr. Stephen Cobb, on their CD Pulse. It was first used a set-work at the Swiss National Championships in 2022 and again at the Dutch National Championships in 2024.

A video of the International Staff Band performing the work can be viewed below: