No. 3: Andante, B-flat Major, Alla breve

This piece is a set of variations consisting of a theme and five variations, inheriting the virtuosic characteristics of the Viennese Classical period while also possessing lyrical Romantic elements.

The theme is based on his own incidental music, Rosamunde, Princess of Cyprus, D 797 (also famous as the theme of the second movement of String Quartet No. 13, D 804). In the first variation, the theme takes on a dotted rhythm, and in the second variation, the lightened accompaniment figure emphasizes the syncopated rhythm. After a solemn B-flat minor is inserted in the third variation, the fourth variation shifts to G-sharp major, where a yodel resounds. The fifth variation returns to B-flat major, developing virtuosic passages based on scales. Finally, the theme slowly returns, bringing the piece to a close.