The staff at Just Flutes really know a thing or two about flute music and here are five of their top recommendations. Definitely gold dust for those wanting that extra little bit of inspiration!
Andy Scott and Lemn Sissay: My Mountain Top for Alto Flute and Backing Track. Chosen by Bethany Desmond – General Manager
I discovered My Mountain Top while searching for a piece for one of my final university recitals that offered something a little different than the standard flute repertoire. Although originally written for saxophone quartet, the music translates beautifully to the alto flute, sitting comfortably within the instrument’s range and allowing its rich, dark tone to perfectly complement the text of the poem. The result is a haunting atmosphere that requires a sensitive touch from the performer in order to blend seamlessly with the backing track without overpowering the spoken words. It is a highly rewarding piece to perform (even if synchronising with the backing track takes some practice!) and is a definite crowd pleaser. Difficulty Guide: 8-9
Max-Meyer Olbersleben Fantasy Sonata Op 17 for Flute and Piano. Chosen by Issy Haley-Porteus – Product Specialist
I love this piece because:
- It is the only piece he wrote for a woodwind instrument!
- I’m an absolute stickler for romantic music and there are moments where you can really hear the influence of Liszt (who I believe he studied with at Weimar Orchestra School during the 1870s).
- The first movement is lively and playful but the serenade-like second movement is my favourite to play- it feels like a dream, with the fluttering piano arpeggios accompanying the floating melody.
- The Baccanale 3rd movement is fiery! There’s a lovely yet haunting melody near the end before the exciting closing section and a surprisingly catchy ending.
- I think it just feels quite refreshing, and isn’t overplayed like much of the romantic flute repertoire!
- Difficulty Guide: 9
Makoto Shinohara: Kassouga for Flute and Piano. Chosen by Louis Mintrim – Product Specialist
I think in the showroom we are extremely accustomed to appreciating the artistry that has come out of Japan, in terms of flute making at least, however I think we could pay an awful lot more attention to the amazing music that has been composed there. The rich culture of traditional music, whether it is Shakuhachi, or any other trad instrument, is truly beautiful – however in the western classical tradition, we can often feel as though we don’t understand music that is so different from what we are used to. I think this piece reflects Shinohara’s varied life, having started in Japan, and then living in Paris, the USA and Canada later in life, as it seamlessly blends aspects of traditional Japanese music with accessibility and familiarity to those who have not yet explored this fascinating culture. The broad melodies provide a lot of opportunity to experiment with Shakuhachi-style ornamentation, and the faster section towards the end is exciting and almost cinematic in nature. Overall, an amazing piece that is just that little bit different to what we may usually programme. Difficulty Guide: 9
Bohuslav Martinů: Sonata for Flute and Piano. Chosen by Kieran Gilbert – Logistics Co-Ordinator
I love the interplay between the flute and piano in this piece. There are beautiful melodic moments even thought the harmony is sometimes slightly crazy, and there’s plenty of scope for expression across the piece as a whole, especially in the Adagio. I’m performing this as part of a bird-themed recital as Martinu based the third movement on the call of a whippoorwill that he heard in America. Difficulty Guide: 8-9
Broadway Songs for Classical Players for Flute and Piano with online audio. Chosen by Lily Halward – Senior Product Specialist and Email Marketer
I have a deep love of the music of Broadway as I studied the flute as part of my Music Theatre course. Every song in this book is a classic, the arrangements are great (not too difficult!) and you can play along with the download piano tracks if you can’t find a pianist. Sheer bliss! Difficulty guide 3-6
