Description
JS Bach Sonatas and Partitas Volume 1-Sonatas for Alto Flute
JS Bach Sonatas and Partitas Volume 1-Sonatas for Alto Flute
Specifications
Tetractys Publishing
Arranger: Carla Rees
Volume One: Sonatas 1-3
Difficulty: Intermediate – Advanced
Duration: 17, 20 & 23 mins approx
Programme Notes by Carla Rees
JS Bach – Sonatas and Partitas for Solo Violin
Arranged for Alto Flute by Carla Rees
Arrangements of one kind or another have been at the heart of alto flute repertoire since Boehm’s own arrangements of well-known works at the time of the instrument’s development in the mid-1850s. For an instrument that lacks its own repertoire before the mid-nineteenth century, adapting earlier works provides both useful practice material and a broader range of musical material.
This adaptation of the violin Sonatas and Partitas are formed from studying various printed sources, including a facsimile of the composer’s manuscript, with slight modifications made (especially in the Fugue movements) to suit a single-line instrument and the idiosyncrasies of the alto flute. Articulations are based on those found in the source material but may be altered to suit the interpretation and requirements of the individual player, as is commonly the case with violin performances. Double stopping has been represented by grace notes, which may be allowed more time or omitted altogether depending on the skill and tastes of the performer.
Inevitably, breathing is a challenge when playing music originally conceived for strings on the alto flute, and I have decided not to include suggestions for breath marks to allow greater flexibility for the individual player. However, I would recommend that the more difficult breathing passages can be used to help build stamina and develop greater breath control, and are ideal for use as studies.
Although intended for the alto flute (and transposed so that when played on the alto flute the music sounds in the original key), these arrangements may also be played on other members of the flute family. Carla Rees, July 2012
Johann Sebastian Bach
J. S. Bach was a German composer and musician of the Baroque period. A renowned harpsichordist and organist, he composed over 1000 works, enriching the German musical style through his skills in counterpoint and harmony. Some of his most popular works include Air on the G String, Goldberg Variations, Brandenburg Concertos, The Well-Tempered Clavier, Toccata and Fugue in D minor, and many more. Bach’s adaptation of rhythms, forms, and textures took influence from abroad, particularly in Italy and France.
He also wrote several outstanding solo, chamber and concerto works for flute.
Bach is regarded as one of the greatest composers of all time.
https://www.britannica.com/biography/Johann-Sebastian-Bach
Carla Rees-Composer/Flautist
An experienced arranger and prize-winning composer, Carla’s catalogue of works has received performances in the UK and internationally, including at flute conventions and festivals in the UK, Slovenia, Costa Rica and the USA.
If you have any queries, please call us on 020 7388 8438 (UK) or +44 (0)20 7388 8438 (International)
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