Four Small Modal Pieces for Flute

Grade I

I am currently learning to play the flute and have just about mastered the first octave (as of Feb. 2006). In order to spur me on to the second octave, I have written these four pieces which are about Grade One level. They were composed on the flute in a very short space of time with the harpsichord part added as an afterthought. Although scored for flute and harpsichord, the keyboard part can be played on piano, or indeed the flute part will work as a solo without accompaniment.

I am always interested in how my pieces (particularly educational pieces) are being used. I have therefore decided to offer all my beginner flute music free (click here to enter my Sibelius site to print them), but would ask that people send me an email to say how they are using it and feel free to include any comments or requests. guybunce@hotmail.com

The four pieces are as follows:

1: Inter spem et metum:
This piece is in the Aeolian mode on G and portrays the title by switching between the minor mode and major. The piece should be played as lyrically as possible.

2: Winter Song:
Winter Song is in the Dorian mode on D and has a dance-like feel. This piece should be played as fast as the flautist can manage with no rit at the end.

3: Minuet:
The minuet is in the Aeolian mode on E. The piece should be played (where possible) with a slight accent on the second beat of every bar.

4: Puck's Dance:
Puck’s Dance is based around the Lydian mode on G, but soon changes to Lydian on A. The piece helps support the transition between the two octaves on the flute and also includes the D# necessary for Grade One music and scales. The piece should be played with vigour and should not be allowed to drag.