Staff Pick
“Latin for all!”
This is another great piece from Ricky Lombardo. He is such a good arranger for large groups and knows exactly how to space the parts. There is rhythmic unity aplenty to keep the ensemble tight and the keys (loosely C F and B flat majors) are very accessible. 'Con Vida' starts with 4 tricky bars but then settles down into an energetic dance, 'Mi Amor' is a great way to learn the Habanera style and 'Ole' is a true Latin flourish from start to finish. This movement in particular would stand alone, especially at the end of a concert. There is a C flute alternative for the alto flute part so this is completely playable with concert flutes only. If you like your music Latin you can't fail to enjoy this!
'The concept of the expandable form gives a great deal of versatlility in any flute choir situation. This arrangement works successfully using a quartet of C flutes on the first four parts. As instruments are added they expand harmonic support, reinforce a line of another part and/or introduce new counter melodies. The intergrity of the arrangement is never compormised. It is only enhanced.'
Difficulty guide: 5-7
Difficulty level, roughly compared to ABRSM exam grades. 0 is total beginner, 9 is advanced (beyond grade 8).
