Mediterranean Winds for Alto Flute and Piano

These short pieces are a great way to start off your alto flute playing journey. Each one has completely a different character, ranging from the jazzy Ghibli to the beautiful melody of Garbino and the rhythmic energy of Maestrale. Each one would stand alone which is even better and the easy listening style of the writing is most appealing!

Each of the five movements in this work for alto flute and piano is given the Italian name for one of the winds that blow around the Mediterranean—Ghibli, Garbino, Zefiro, Tramontana and Maestrale. The movements can be performed together, forming a suite of around 15 minutes duration, or played individually.

Warren’s compositional style is heavily influenced by jazz, using modal harmonies and extended chords to good effect. As a flute player himself, his understanding of the alto flute comes through well, with each of the pieces providing a different character while balancing well with the practical considerations of the instrument.

My favourite of the five pieces is perhaps the last one, Maestrale, which is a fast, upbeat movement with driving rhythms. The first, Ghibli, also has a strong rhythmic energy, with syncopations and accents helping to provide tension. Garbino is softer in tone, with sustained notes decorated by moving semiquavers. This one is great for exploring tone colours and expression. Zefiro is in a 7/4 time signature and inhabits an enjoyable irregular groove.

The alto part is not especially challenging and would be within the capacities of most intermediate players. The piano part is sensitively balanced to allow space for the alto flute while also providing a sense of dialogue and support.

These are well-written pieces which I can imagine becoming popular with amateur players in particular; they have lots of offer and are fun to play.