Raise a glass – 2025 was a vintage year for new flute publications and they are a real cause for a celebration!
Amanda Jane Fox: Wind in my Mind for Flute and Piano
Amanda Fox really knows how to write a good tune and The Wind in my Mind is exactly that. She always writes from the heart so the simple beginning soon develops, rising ever higher to become increasingly expressive. As she is a great pianist as well as flute player, the accompaniment underpins the whole piece, propelling it along in swirls of lush arpeggios and adding a wonderful richness to the texture. This is music to be cherished and loved, as it will be by players and audiences alike. Another Amanda Fox classic! Difficulty Guide: 7
Janna Huneke: The Flute Unwrapped: Your Musical Companion
Subtitled ‘Your Musical Companion’ Janna’s very personal approach is totally appealing. The book is really thorough and all the basic techniques are covered. Where this book is refreshingly different however is in the wonderful videos which are accessed easily by QR code. Janna’s reassuring manner, coupled with her clear explanations and demonstrations, makes us feel that we are all in this together. For adults either returning or just embarking on an exciting new flute journey this couldn’t be better! Difficulty Guide: 5-8
Lowell Liebermann: Flute Concerto No 2 (Flute and Piano)
The music of Lowell Liebermann is very popular and a new concerto is an exciting prospect. This one does not disappoint and is the very essence of his style – atmospheric, romantic and virtuoso and all written with a wonderful understanding of what the flute can do. Sumptuous! Difficulty Guide: 9
Victoria Rockport: Sticky Fingers for Flute
The twelve short exercises in this lovely book are all given titles so they add a musical point to a technical necessity, and the mix of solos and duets ensures that a different focus is given to each one. All the basic technical skills are covered and there’s even one that includes key slaps which will really fascinate a young player. Highly recommended for beginners everywhere! Difficulty Guide: 1-3
Hilary Taggart: Innocente for Flute and Piano
Hilary Taggart has written this piece from the heart and it shows in every phrase. The music is as dark as the de Chirico cover image but technically it flows beautifully over the entire range, weaving the narrative through lovely flute writing. The accompaniment is also well-crafted. This is simple music which belies an underlying turmoil and not to be missed! Difficulty Guide: 7
