Ghost Train for Flute, Bassoon and Piano

This is a lively, jazz-style trio for flute, bassoon and piano lasting around ten minutes. The piece was commissioned by Chamber Music Palisades, a Los Angeles-based concert series, in 2013. The title of the piece is derived from the use of “ghost notes”, which are performed more softly than the surrounding notes and are frequently used in jazz. These notes appear frequently in this piece.

The piece is in one continuous movement, but there are many contrasting sections within it that give the sense of ‘journey’ which is also hinted at in the title. The parts are equally balanced, with solo moments for each player as well as some use of dialogue and tight ensemble unisons. There is plenty of chromaticism in the writing, as well as the use of jazz rhythms. Each of the parts provides a sense of challenge; it would need a skilled ensemble to perform this effectively, but it would not be out of reach of advanced students.

There is a lot of character in the music, with some tension building through the repeated notes in the piano towards the end which brings to mind a tolling bell. The three instruments are handled effectively, and this is a welcome addition to the repertoire for this colourful instrumental combination.

The score is clearly produced with some very helpful cues in the parts and a good consideration of the practicalities of page turns.