September 4
September 5
Three Pieces for Two Flutes
John Cage (1912-1992)
Today we celebrate the birthday of the iconic American composer, John Cage who was born on September 5, 1912. These three early pieces of the composer were written in 1935 while Cage was studying with Arnold Schoenberg. The pieces can be seen as studies in chromatic counterpoint; the Grave movement, recorded here, tricks the listener’s ear as the two flutists swap registers and parts of the beat to create striking composite rhythms and harmonies.
Performed by Jennifer Parker-Harley and Philip Snyder.
September 6
Concerto for Flute
Joan Tower (b. 1938)
Joan Tower, born on this day in 1938, is widely regarded as one of the most important American composers living today. During a career spanning more than fifty years, she has made lasting contributions to musical life in the United States as composer, performer, conductor, and educator. The Concerto for Flute was dedicated to and premiered by flutist Carol Wincenc. Tower writes, “The 15-minute work starts with the low register of the flute alone before the orchestra comes. As the flute gets more active, the chamber-size orchestra provides competitive tension which is matched phrase by phrase as the piece heads relentlessly towards to a finale where the "music blows wide open" (Wincenc) in a virtuosic display of flute scales and arpeggios.”
Performed by Kenneth Cox and the Bowling Green State University Philharmonia.
September 11
Rondo from Duo Op. 39
Friedrich Kuhlau (1786-1832)
Friedrich Kuhlau was born on this day in 1786 in Germany. Although he is best known for his piano music, he also wrote prolifically for the flute: sonatas, duos, trios and a quartet.
Performed by Jennifer Parker-Harley and Zach Warren.
September 17
O tu suavissima virga
Hildegard von Bingen (1098-1179)
Today we celebrate the birthday of Hildegard of Bingen. She was a a Benedictine abbess, poet, mystic and musician who wrote many liturgical songs among other compositions. This version for two flutes was arranged by Samantha Marshall.
Performed by Samantha Marshall and Zach Warren.
September 22
Sprite
Michael Torke (b. 1961)
Today we celebrate the birthday of the contemporary American composer, Michael Torke. Torke’s music has been described as “optimistic, joyful, and thoroughly uplifting” (Gramophone) and his piece, Sprite, falls easily into all three categories. The piece was written for and premiered by Carol Wincenc who, according to the composer’s program note, asked for “a valentine, for flute and piano.”
Performed by Jenny Davis and Claudio Olivera, piano.