A Winged Brocade for Two Flutes and Piano

This is another lovely piece by Ian Clarke which is both atmospheric and mesmerizing. All three instruments weave around each other with snippets of melody fleetingly appearing here and there as if creating a rich brocade. Sweeping phrases appear out of this texture to give the music wings. The low flute colours are particularly effective, especially when used with the simple harmonics which are the only contemporary techniques on show here. This is a magical work, ideal for those just starting to discover the music of Ian Clarke as well for those who are already converted!

This is a new trio for two flutes and piano by one of the UK's favourite flute player/composers, Ian Clarke. Lyrical in style, the piece can be played on closed hole flutes with C foot; aside from some harmonics and very occasional alternative fingerings, there are no extended techniques required here. The parts are evenly distributed and use the full range of the flute, with flute 1 often inhabiting the top register with soaring melodic lines. There's plenty of opportunity for cantabile playing here.

The piece was premiered by Ian Clarke, Paul Edmund-Davies and Scott Mitchell at the Scottish International Flute Summer School, and it has since been performed in Europe and USA. The 'brocade' of the title refers to a 'richly decorative woven fabric often with gold and silver threads' - as such, the two flutes weave lines around each other in an expressive dialogue. A good sense of ensemble is required, with each player needing rhythmic precision within the almost meditative character of the music. The piano provides a calm and relatively simple accompaniment, with a gentle bass line over which the right hand enters into a supportive conversation with the flutes.

This is likely to be a popular piece, especially amongst intermediate or advanced players who enjoy expressivity and harmonic simplicity within a gentle and lyrical soundworld. It's also a great place to develop great control of intonation across the range of the instrument.

The edition is well presented with practical page turns. A must for all Ian Clarke fans!