This is a really good addition to the repertoire for this combination and as none of these Songs is particularly well known it is a voyage of discovery for most of us. All the arrangements are successful, with much flowing writing over all parts so good ensemble skills will be needed here to play them well. Each of the four will stand alone in performance. The piano Agitato in 6/4 of the first movement starts restlessly before becoming more tranquil, the next Moderato is in a more lyrical in style, the third is a Gondoliers Song in 6/8 and the presto Spinnerleid contains much intricate writing in chromatic patterns. There is a cello part which can be used instead of the bass flute and you do really need a lower instrument to make these 4 pieces work. Challenging.
These pieces, originally composed for the piano, are ideally suited for flute arrangements. The keys were adapted to the flute's range, apart from that, the notation remains unchanged. In case no alto flute is available, this part can be taken over by a violoncello, a separate violoncello part is included in this edition. The pieces are especially useful as encores in music school concerts.
