Discover the rich tradition of British flute music with these captivating pieces that are guaranteed to please!
Michael Head: By the River in Spring for flute and piano
This substantial piece by the English composer Michael Head deserves to be more widely known as it is really beautiful! Based on the French tradition of lovely melodies, virtuoso writing and cadenza like passages, it is unmistakably English in its harmonies and folk-inspired tunes which really capture Spring in the English countryside. A great alternative to Chaminade! Difficulty Guide: 8
Henry Purcell arranged Britta Roscher: Two Fantasies for Three Flutes and Alto Flute
It’s so satisfying to play a really good arrangement, especially of Henry Purcell which is quite unusual. All the contrapuntal character of his writing has been preserved and suits this combination of flutes very well. The parts are not technically challenging so all the skill will go into the balancing of the lines as they come and go with the alto adding a depth to the texture to capture the ‘consort’ colour. Great for schools, amateur groups and good musicians everywhere! Difficulty Guide: 7-8
Matt Smith: Taken Voice for piccolo and piano
This is an imaginative piece, commissioned by Sarah Miller, delves deep into Cornish folklore. The extraordinary song of the Pednpaley takes centre stage here, swirling, and diving with plenty of notes and changes of time signature to show off its unpredictable character. There are some lovely moments of repose and low register colours on show as the narrative develops, before a dramatic and virtuoso cadenza heralds the return of the song and the triumph of good over evil. This is a real workout for the soloist especially if you add in the role of narrator and is an excellent choice for anyone who is looking for something just that little bit different to add to a recital. Difficulty Guide: 9
Ralph Vaughan Williams: Suite de Ballet for flute and piano
It’s a privilege to have an authentic work for flute by Vaughan Williams which is unmistakably English in character. The opening Improvisation has a pastoral feel and is followed by the country dance style Humoresque, The Gavotte is sad but elegant and the Passepied breathless and exciting. Rooted in the folk music tradition which is central to Vaughan Williams musical language, this is a piece not to be missed! Difficulty guide: 7-8
Roxanna Panufnik: A Wind at Rooks Haven for Solo Flute
This is a haunting piece which was originally written for flute and voice. There is no sense of a lack of text here though, as the writing fully reflects the words. It’s sad, like the poem, but melancholy rather than tragic. Note bending ushers in the first tune ‘played by the wind’ before the music becomes more animated. Fluttering and repeated patterns of notes herald the cries of crows before the opening music returns. This is a really approachable work and one which will add a touch of class to any recital! Difficulty Guide: 9
