Program
Suite Op. 34 - Charles-Marie Widor
Sonata in C# Minor - Mélanie Bonis
Le rire de Saraï - Guillaume Connesson
Robert Langevin, Flute
Linda Mark, Piano
Fantasie - Gabriel Fauré
Elena Medic
Nocturne et Allegro Scherzando - Philippe Gaubert
Natalie Trejo
Andante Pastoral et Scherzettino - Paul Taffanel
Bianca Morris
Masterclass Highlights
The masterclass focuses on three students performing beloved French repertoire, with Robert Langevin offering guidance on musical character, stylistic authenticity, and expressive phrasing.
Style & Interpretation
- Understand the language: French repertoire has its own distinctive color and charm. Langevin draws on his deep roots in the French tradition to help students inhabit these works, not just play them.
- Singing on the flute: Whether in Fauré's lyrical lines or Taffanel's pastoral sections, the flute must breathe and phrase like a voice — listen to singers for inspiration.
Technical Focus
- Tone before speed: Clarity of sound is the priority. Work passages slowly to build a consistent tone quality throughout the register.
- Rhythmic precision: Scherzando passages (as in the Gaubert) require lightness and clarity — every note must have a clear character and direction.
Musical Context
- Langevin brings deep personal experience with the French school, having studied in Europe and spent decades performing this repertoire at the highest levels, to help students understand the spirit behind the notes.
Program Highlights:
- Elena Medic (52:29): Fauré, Fantasie — Finding the dream-like, floating quality of Fauré's harmonic world.
- Natalie Trejo (1:13:48): Gaubert, Nocturne et Allegro Scherzando — Balancing nocturnal lyricism with playful brilliance.
- Bianca Morris (1:37:26): Taffanel, Andante Pastoral et Scherzettino — Channeling pastoral ease and gentle wit.