7 Pieces We Are Lucky to Have in the Flute Repertoire
Ever wondered which flute pieces we’re lucky to have in our repertoire? From iconic masterpieces to hidden gems, these works have shaped the flute world and continue to inspire musicians everywhere. Dive into our list of seven must-know pieces that every flutist should treasure! 🎶🍀✨
1. George Crumb Vox Balaenae (Flute, Cello, Piano)
Voice of the Whale is a chamber piece inspired by the singing of the humpback whale. It requires that the three players be masked, as a way to efface a sense of human projection, and that they be amplified. This is truly one of the most powerful pieces one could have the pleasure of performing. Throughout the piece you are required to whistle, act as a percussionist, and speak into your flute. The balance of intensity and delicacy makes this piece unique, powerful, and emotional.
For a piece that is under 8 minutes in length, it is surely packed with a lot of action! Ballade shows off the flutist's technique and expressiveness and has become a standard in the flute repertoire.
3. André Jolivet Chant De Linos
You are certainly in for a wild ride when performing (and learning) Chant de Linos! This piece is driven by energy, fire, and explosiveness. Technical mastery is certainly a must, as this is one of the most challenging pieces in the flute repertoire. Although originally written for flute and piano, Jolivet transcribed the piece for flute, violin, viola, cello, and harp in the same year. If you can gather some friends, give this piece a go as a chamber group!
Griffes Poem pulls you in right from the start with its mystical and eerie melodies. This piece allows the performer to showcase melodic mastery and maturity in just one continuous movement.
Premiered by Georges Barrere
5. Claude Debussy Sonate for Flute, Viola and Harp
This trio is the only chamber music we have from Debussy, and we’re so lucky to have it. A perfect example of impressionistic exoticism, Debussy creates lovely colors with each instrument.
6. Elliott Carter Scrivo in Vento
Scrivo in Vento for solo flute takes its title from a poem of Petrarch. It uses the flute to present contrasting musical ideas and displays the paradoxical nature of the poem. The opening has the flute in its lower register, quickly disturbed by notes in the upper register and continues to go between these two very quickly. The piece has an unsettling feel and keeps you on your toes as a performer!
Scrivo in Vento was written for Robert Aitken
7. Aaron Copland Duo for Flute and Piano
Lyricism is the word that immediately comes to mind when thinking of the Copland Duo. This purely American piece is beautifully crafted for the flute. The three movements Flowing; Poetic, somewhat mournful; Lively, with bounce; perfectly describe the nature of the piece.
Duo was written for William Kincaid
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