Four Jazz Duets for Two Flutes

These four great duets by Ali Ryerson make playing jazz seem straightforward, especially as she has included the option of improvising or playing the written part which is very helpful. Daytime Blues and In the Shade are really feel good numbers, while Fourths for Two in Three and Try and Catch Me are a little more complex. Hugely enjoyable and a great asset in a flute concert!

This set of four duets is designed for both classical and jazz players and provides an enjoyable introduction into the jazz idiom. Ryerson gives advice on how to create a jazz sound, including using legato tonguing as a default, reducing the amount of vibrato used and lightly swinging the quavers. The first two duets, Daytime Blues and In the Shade, provide opportunities for improvised solos over a 12-bar blues pattern, with chord symbols provided as well as a written-out version of the solo for those with less confidence to improvise. This is an excellent opportunity to develop an understanding of both the construction of the 12-bar blues pattern and to gain experience in improvising, all within the safe environment of a flute duet rehearsal! Both players have the opportunity to have a go at creating a solo, meaning that this is potentially an area an established duo can develop together.

Each of the duets is relatively short and well suited for intermediate players. The score is well presented in a typical jazz-style type face, with both parts and the score provided. The pieces are fun and capture Ryerson’s characteristic energy. These are an excellent starting point for anyone interested in venturing into the jazz domain, as well as enjoyable, well-written pieces which provide scope for those with more jazz experience to explore style and interpretation in more depth. Ideal for students and amateurs alike, these are likely to become quite a big hit. Recommended.