Coventry Carol Variations for Flute Ensemble

This unusual version of the Coventry Carol is certainly different. Simon Desorgher has used each variation to highlight a different alternative technique. The double trills which are a feature of Lully Lullay are produced by moving the right hand up the flute in order to use two fingers to trill on one key. This is really effective in producing a colour from another world. The harmonics used in O Sisters Too are more familiar and produce a completely different type of mysterious quality. The accents and singing and playing of Herod the King change the texture completely, adding power and drama to the narrative before the trills return in That Woe is Me. Initially this might all seems a little daunting and there are some challenges to be met. Singing, playing and fluttering together, and double trilling on a harmonic need time to bed in. However, it's possible to replace the singing with tongue rams which are easier, and parts 6, 7 and the bass can be played normally. Start practising over the summer and by December you will have a stunner that would enhance any Christmas concert.