Performance Winners for Four Flutes

Mike Walton has written a large amount of good music for beginner flute ensembles and this is another great set of pieces. Note ranges are limited so you can put a strong focus on rhythm and listening skills. The successful blend which allows some independence of the lines whilst keeping some parts in rhythmic unison means that everyone feels comfortable. Swing and off beats occur in all three pieces, of which Two-Step Dixie is the most challenging. Starting in C major, there are modulations to F major, B flat major and back to F major before returning to C major but once the rhythm is established the key changes will be easier to manage. Three Cornered is a quirky jazz waltz which is much less demanding and Pomp and Panache accompanies a military theme with off beat quavers. These are all appealing and approachable - just the thing for that ensemble concert!