La Tourterelle (The Wren) Fantaisie and Polka for Three Mixed Flutes

This is another great arrangement by Mel Orriss which captures the spirit and virtuosity of Damare's original.  It's really clever, spacing the tune out between the two C flutes who dovetail all the way through the opening and closing sections, ably supported by the alto flute line. The trio is all about the piccolo. You will need three good players for this with first flute doubling the piccolo, a second flute who also needs good finger agility and the ability to hold a tune in the trio, and an alto player with plenty of stamina! As this is a fantasie with a bird at it's heart it can go a fast as you like - what a gem this arrangement is!

This is a sparkling polka which evokes birdsong in a bright and showy arrangement for two flutes and alto (with first flute also doubling on piccolo). One can immediately detect Mel Orriss's characteristic style in the arrangement; the opening melodic material is spread evenly between the three instruments in a short introduction, before Flute 1 launches into a cadenza. Flute 2 then takes over for a transition passage before the main polka begins.

The alto mainly functions in an accompanying role, so doesn't have the same technical demands of the two flute parts, but it does have a moment of legato melody which brings out the character of the instrument.

The two flute parts need good technical control and clear articulation, and interact together throughout, sharing melodic material and engaging in dialogue.

Damaré's music is full of character and ideal for recitals; this arrangement would make a perfect encore for a relatively advanced trio.