Staff Pick
“Difficult but worth it!”
Wind tones start this work which describes the journey of group of wild horses across the open spaces of an American plain. As they come closer the writing gains in intensity through ever more complex textures. The intertwining of lines and underlying rhythmic drive increases its direction and volume before subsiding as the horses disappear into the distance and the wind tones return. This is a difficult piece to play well but it's very effective when you do!
Los Caballos (The Horses) was commissioned by Dan Parasky for the members of his 2014-2015 Honors Flute Quartet. The piece begins with the sound of wind on a deserted plain. There is a flicker of movement in the distance, then the horses start their ride. Strong, beautiful, and wild, they gallop across the landscape, gradually disappearing over the horizon, leaving the sound of the wind behind.
Difficulty guide: 9
Difficulty level, roughly compared to ABRSM exam grades. 0 is total beginner, 9 is advanced (beyond grade 8).
