Staff Pick
“Gabrieli for flutes?”
The music of Giovanni Gabrieli, with its antiphonal style of writing, really lends itself to being arranged for large flute ensembles and Robert Rainford has done a spendid job of re-creating the space that would have been at the heart of the original composition. Whilst each individual part does not look too tricky, the complex nature of the piece makes this a little more difficult than would initially appear. There are no alternative parts for the 2 alto and 2 bass flutes parts and you really needs these loweer instruments to make the writing come to life.But with those forces you have a very interesting texture that could really make a contrast in a flute ensemble programme. Try it for yourself and see!
Flute Choir/Ensemble - 4 flutes, 2 alto flutes, 2 bass flutes. This piece features all the most satisfying elements of Renaissance music. Whilst none of the parts individually are difficult (nothing higher than D), the complex eight-part polyphony make this more of a challenge than it would first appear. The articulation requires detailed attention to bring out the various entries of the themes, and the dynamics need to bring out the echo effects used in this music. A very interesting large scale flute choir arrangement.
Difficulty guide: 3-6
Difficulty level, roughly compared to ABRSM exam grades. 0 is total beginner, 9 is advanced (beyond grade 8).
