Flutes and Co, Stricklandgate Methodist Church, Kendal
FLUTES and Co is a well-established local group of flautists. Founded in 1994 with only six young players, the ensemble now numbers around 25 with an age range of 11 to 70.
In Stricklandgate Methodist Church, under the enthusiastic direction of energetic Sue Nicholls, the 25 flutes plus double bass and percussion presented a varied programme of arrangements for flute band and one original work.
One of the remarkable features of the group’s playing is the fullness of the sound. Many years of fundraising has enabled the purchase of the larger instruments of the flute family so that, in addition to the normal flute and piccolo, the group now has alto flute, bass and contrabass. These instruments, plus a double bass, allow the players to play harmonically over a wide range.
Highlights were an arrangement of Tchaikovsky’s familiar Danse des Mirlitons from his ‘Nutcracker Suite’, a very satisfying arrangement of Vivaldi’s Spring Concerto – with three different soloists all revealing a high level of musicality and technical achievement – and an arrangement of Ravel’s famous Bolero.
Throughout the evening, the group’s sense of ensemble was impressive and the obvious joy in music making came across to the audience.
CLIVE WALKLEY
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