Final answer:
The comparison between the "Simple Gifts" theme and variation 5 cannot be accurately detailed without additional information on the specific piece of music and its variations. The Simple Gifts theme typically changes in terms of rhythm, meter, harmony, melody, and instrumentation in a variation. Option a is the correct answer.
Step-by-step explanation:
The question appears to ask for a comparison between the "Simple Gifts" theme and variation 5 of a particular piece of music. The Simple Gifts theme is a well-known Shaker tune that has been adapted and varied many times, including famously by composer Aaron Copland in his ballet score for Appalachian Spring. Without specific information regarding variation 5, we cannot accurately compare the musical attributes such as meter, instrumental solo features, or tempo.
In general, when comparing a theme and its variations, it's common to look for changes in elements such as rhythm, meter, harmony, melody, and instrumentation. A theme presented in a duple meter (a simple two or four beats to a measure) might be variated into a triple meter (three beats to a measure), which would change the fundamental feel of the piece. Similarly, a solo instrument featured in the original theme might be absent or replaced by a different instrument in a variation, and the tempo may be altered to create a different mood or emphasize different aspects of the melody or harmony.
However, without context or further details on the specific piece of music and its fifth variation, we can make no true statements about the differences between the Simple Gifts theme and variation 5. To provide a factual and informed answer, additional information is necessary.