The term “Flute” was originally used in France during the 12th century to refer to both the flute and recorder. These instruments were introduced to Spain and France by the 14th century. In Italy, flutes gained popularity in music during the 16th century. The flute’s design remained mostly unchanged until the early 1700s when significant advancements were made by the Jean Hotteterre family, transforming it from a single-piece instrument into a three-piece one with six small tone holes and an E-flat key. Flute makers in London further expanded its tonal range around 1760 by adding additional keys such as G-sharp, B-flat, and F.
Famous Performers Marcel Moyse Herbie Mann
Marcel Moyse, a highly influential flutist in France and the United States during the twentieth century, began his musical journey by enrolling at the Paris Conservatory in 1905. Just a year later, in 1906, he achieved the prestigious premier prix. From 1913 to 1938, Moyse held the position of principal flute at the Opéra-Comique, where he showcased his exceptional talent. Prior to World War I, Moyse played a part in the debut performances of various ballets worldwide. Throughout his time in Europe, Moyse had the privilege of working under renowned conductors like Prokofiev and Stravinsky. In 1934, he formed the Moyse Trio with his son Louis on piano and daughter-in-law Blanche Honegger as the violinist. Not only did Moyse bring joy to audiences through his performances, but he also shared his expertise as a professor at both the Paris Conservatory from 1932 to 1940 and the Geneva Conservatory until 1949. Eventually, Marcel Moyse decided to make a new home in North America after migrating from Argentina.
Herbie Mann, also known as Herbert Jay Solomon, was an American jazz flautist. He played a significant role in the formation of the Marlboro Music Festival and taught there from 1949 to 1966. Additionally, he conducted yearly master classes for flutists and woodwind players in Brattleboro, VT, as well as Switzerland and England. At the young age of 15, Mann showcased his talent as a flautist while performing at a resort.
During the 1950s, he primarily focused on bop flute playing and collaborated with renowned artists like Phil Woods. Mann’s 1959 album, Flutista, featured Afro-Cuban jazz compositions. In 1961, he embarked on a tour of Brazil and later recorded with notable Brazilian musicians such as Antonio Carlos Jobim and guitarist Baden Powell upon his return to the United States.
Mann performed with Vasant Rai at New York City’s Bottom Line and Village Gate clubs from the late 1970s to the early 1980s. His final show occurred on May 3, 2003, at the New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival. Tragically, Mann died less than two months later on July 1, 2003, at the age of 73. He gained recognition for his work with acclaimed composers.
http://www.fluteworld.com/index.php?action=strona&wart=110
http://www.flutehistory.com/Players/Johann_Joachim_Quantz/
Giulio Briccialdi, born in Termi in 1818, was a flutist and composer. He initially learned the flute from his father but moved to Rome after his father’s death to avoid pressure of becoming a priest. In Rome, he supported himself through flute playing and studied composition. Briccialdi is known for works such as the “Carnival of Venice” and various books of etudes and woodwind quintets.
Johann Joachim Quantz, an influential professional flutist of the 18th century, began his career as a town musician skilled at all instruments but focused solely on playing the flute after joining the Dresden court ensemble in 1719. In 1741, he became a member of Frederick the Great’s service in Prussia where he dedicated himself to making flutes, composing, and performing for the king until his death.
Repertoire
The following websites provide information on the most famous flute solo pieces and concertos:
http://www.mostlywind.co.uk/cantlive.html
http://www.naxos.com/catalogue/item.asp?item_code=7031
These sites showcase renowned compositions for flute. Additionally, you can find more information about famous orchestras at:
http://www.sfsymphony.org/
http://www.laphil.com/
The San Francisco Symphony was established in 1908 and has been active for over a century, while the LA Philharmonic is currently in its 94th season and is considered one of the world’s finest orchestras.
