Brief Description
Provides sound advice on the issues raised when performing music of the past.
Learn More about the Book
This handbook for flautists addresses all who wish to consider the issues raised when performing music of the past, and experiment with them on old or new instruments. Its aim is to provide an authoritative and practical guide with evidence drawn from a variety of primary sources directly and indirectly associated with the flute. The author provides sound advice on instruments and their care, historical techniques, stylistic issues and historically informed interpretation, with examples drawn from a wide range of case studies, including Bach, Handel, Mozart and Brahms.
About the Author
Rachel Brown is currently a professor of flute at both the Guildhall School of Music and Drama and the Royal College of Music, London. She plays principal flute for several orchestras including the Academy of Ancient Music and the Hanover Band and has given many concerto performances in Europe, America and Japan. Known for her versatility on modern and historical flutes and recorders, her solo recordings include three recital discs and concertos by Vivaldi, Handel, Quantz, Telemann, J. S., J. C. and C. P. E. Bach. She was first-prize winner at the American National Flute Association Competition in 1984.
Review Quotes
1. "Brown provides an excellent reference manual for flutists who wish to perform the historical flute repertory with taste and with attention to the national stylistic differences in musical cultures as diverse as those of France, Italy, and Germany. Performers on modern instruments will find much of use here.... Highly recommended." Choice
2. '... demonstrates a profound knowledge of the flute's history, and of the changes in performance style and technique.' Early Music Today
3. 'This is an excellent study ...well written and easily accessible ... Rachel Brown has done an excellent job. This practical guide can enrich recorder players' knowledge and should be consulted widely.' The Recorder Magazine
4. 'A highly informative, readable and welcome additions to the Cambridge Handbooks Historical Performance of Music series. It will prove invaluable both as a quick-reference guide and a general introduction to the early flute.' The Consort
