Concerto for Solo Flute, Strings, & Percussion

Concerto for Solo Flute, Strings, & Percussion

In this work, Williams strives to create something for the conventional modern flute that reflects the atmosphere evoked by the great Japanese shakuhachi flutists. The solo is intended to sound improvised, which necessitates that the flute is the only wind instrument employed in the piece. The accompaniment is provided by strings, percussion, piano, celeste and harps, at times creating mysterious sounds evoking the snapping of branches as one explores some imaginary mythical forest.

Duration: 14 minutes
Premiere Date: 1969

Download Inventory Sheet

Solo Flute

2 Harps
Piano/Celeste

Strings

Percussion List:
Glock
Vibes
Xylophone
Marimba (2)
Clave
Maracas
Small Triangle (2 w/ different pitches)
Triangle
Muffled Metal Plate
12” Gong (2)
14” Gong
15” Gong
16” Gong
Large Gong
Muffled Cymbal (crown)
Cymbal (crown or cup)
Muffled Anvil
Wood Block
Large Wood Block
Muffled Drum
Bass Drum