Three Inventions for Five Flutes (Doubling Piccolos)

The Three Inventions of this piece’s title take around 10 minutes to perform, but may also be played as independent movements. Inspired by a performance of Boismortier’s concertos for five f lutes, the inventions are scored for five C flutes, all of whom are required to double on piccolo as well.

The material is equally distributed among the five parts, making the piece ideal for five equal-level and relatively advanced players.

The first movement, titled Apparatus has a machine-like quality, with driving toccata rhythms exploring different combinations of perfect fifths. Large intervals feature here, along with undulating rhythmic energy which gives the movement a driving force throughout.

The central movement, Mirémi is more calm in its atmosphere, with haunting octave unisons between flute 5 and piccolo presenting an intonation challenge. The title comes from the notes that appear at the heart of this invention—E and D, which create ostinato patterns which are explored in a range of different ways. There are some enjoyable textural contrasts here too, including an effective use of rhythmic unison as well as the spacing of the material between the different parts.

The final invention is entitled Spiral Canon after its structural design, which completes two journeys around the circle of fifths in a continuous canon. The piece is based on repetitive, minimalist-style melodic patterns which gradually transform as the piece progresses.

Written for Leone Buyse, each of the Three Inventions provides an enjoyable range of ensemble challenges, and requires each player to blend with the others, as well as to maintain strict rhythm. Serving well as a showpiece for flute quintet, this piece provides a welcome challenge for advanced players.