Selections from Etudes Tableaux for Flute Quintet

Program Notes

Rachmaninoff's Etudes Tableaux are two sets of piano etudes.  These are “picture pieces,” intended to be studies in musical composition focused on a variety of themes.  Each etude explores a distinct scene left to the listener’s interpretation.   

Op. 33 No. 4, Moderato – This march begins and ends with an open fifth echo-like motif.  As the movement progresses, it gains more textural and harmonic complexity.   

Op. 39 No. 8, Allegro Moderato – This lyrical piece has long legato melodies, requiring precision and agility from the performer.   

Op. 39 No. 4, Allegro Assai – Filled with harmonic color and interweaved motives, this gavotte is pointed and energetic.   

Op 39 No. 7, Lento Lugubre – Slow and laborious, the funeral march is dense with emotion, ending with a glorious bell-like theme.   

Op. 33 No. 6, Allegro con Fuoco - “The Fair” is exuberant in its rhythm and harmony.  The fanfare motifs have a jubilant energy.   

Instrumentation

Flute Quintet -
2 Flutes
2 Alto Flutes
1 Bass Flute