Based on the primary melody of Gillingham's work, New Century Dawn, Century Variants is designed to be quite versatile. It is a set of variations which can introduce the symphonic band to the layman or to young children contemplating playing a band instrument. For example, the high school band director could play this piece with the added optional narration (see notes) for the local grade school children for the purpose of recruitment. Or, the piece could be used at a concert to introduce the band to parents and people of the community. If choosing not to use the narration, the piece will stand as a concert work to be featured on any high school or university program.