The Shepherds' Farewell for Four Flutes

Flexibility in numbers is useful at any time of year and at Christmas it's especially valuable. Unexpected absences and sudden appearances happen in most groups so to have an arrangement as good as this which will cover all eventualities is as good as a present! This beautiful melody is left to sell itself with only an added descant to colour its repeat, and there is an obvious advantage in letting star players shine in a larger ensemble. All in all this is simply ideal!

The Shepherds' Farewell (L'adieu des bergers) from L'enfance du Christ has been arranged here for three C flutes and one alto flute. The performance notes at the beginning of the work also suggest that this arrangement could be played by more than four performers. With a larger group the ensemble should note the solo sections which add textural contrasts to the piece. The alto flute provides a bass line full of interest, sometimes mirroring other parts and often offering depth to the harmony. The C flutes are well matched with important details spread throughout, although the range is wider in the first flute, reaching a high Ab.
Flute 2's range does not extend beyond a high Eh and Flute 3 no higher than a C.

The performance directions have been kept in French and are clearly placed above the relevant sections. These directions are detailed, adding rise and fall to the smoothness of the piece. Such specifics also extend to the breathing, with indications of when to breathe as well as when a breath should not be taken. The smooth lines are contrasted by separated rhythms and occasional accented notes, emphasised by the big contrasts in dynamics.
When noted, the overall effect gives an impressive performance.