Franz Liszt

Selected Pieces for Four Flutes

Music by Ferenc Liszt on four flutes? The raison d etre of these arrangements, which at a first hearing seem bizarre, is provided by several factors: 1) Liszt s numerous arrangements of works of his own and those of other composers. 2) A characteristic feature of Liszt s late piano style: his preference for certain registers of the instrument specifically, in several of his works (e. g. Forgotten waltzes, Christmas tree) for the high register. 3) The practical aspect: these pieces selected and arranged by the excellent first flautist of the Hungarian National Philharmonic Orchestra create a convincing illusion when played on four flutes, and offer an opportunity at anearly stage for those learning to play the flute to discover Romanticism and the music of this great composer. (The alto flute part may be played by a student from a more advanced class, or by the teacher.) The pieces in this collection are equally suitable for study purposes and for concert performance.