Notes and Editorial Reviews
A charming and rare recording of new chamber music showcasing the atmospheric sound of the lower members of the flute family. Low Flutes are mostly a 20th century invention, yet the concept of extending a particular instrumental sound dates back to the Renaissance period, when recorder consorts, with bass and alto recorders were used frequently in performances. In recent times, the popularity of low flutes grew with the renewed interest in the flute choir and flute quartet. Low flutes are basically members of the extended flute family, which play below the range of the standard orchestral C flute. These instruments include the alto flute in G (four notes below the C flute), the bass flute in C (one octave below C flute), the contrabass
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flute in C (two octaves below C flute, played in an upright standing position), and the sub-contra bass flute in C (three octaves below the C flute, played either sitting or standing). There are a few other low flutes not represented on this recording. These are the Pinschofon in C, bass flutes in F and G, and a extra large piped instrument known as the hyperbass flute. This unique recording features predominantly commissioned chamber music for low flutes that was composed to showcase the lyrical and colorful tonal qualities of these instruments, hence, expanding their small, yet growing repertoire.
"This collection is a complete delight from beginning to end.. Sheridan's range and technical virtuosity are tremendously impressive. An essential purchase... " - Rick Anderson (Baker & Taylor Library Supply)
“Sheridan's playing opens up a new sound world to composers and flutists alike. This recording is a thrilling and satisfying experience!” - Dr. Houston Dunleavy, Head of Composition, Uni. of Wollongong
“... simply a feast for the ears-stunning sonorities and stunning playing throughout. Bravo!” - Daniel Kessner, Composer, USA “In this recording he [Peter Sheridan] shows the true virtuosity of low flutes...Highly Recommended.” - Carla Rees, BFS Flute Magazine “Attractive performances which expand the possibilities of Low flutes, especially, the Bass and Contrabass flutes which give a very fresh inspiration and originality.” - Shozo Ogura, Kotato Flutes Dealer, USA
“Peter Sheridan is a world class flutist, demonstrating exceptional skill and artistry on contra flutes. His creative approach to these lower instruments shines forth in his extraordinary CD. A "must have" CD for every flutist, especially flutists who specialize in low flutes.” - Paige Dashner Long, Director of the New England
Conservatory Summer Metropolitan Flute Festival Orchestra “I am still basking in the beauty of Peter Sheridan's new CD, aptly titled Below. A real gem for those of us who love the lower voices of the flute family. In particular, the works of Gary Schocker and Alex Shapiro's stunning Below. Peter's beautiful and agile tone on the lower flutes is truly amazing.” - Adrienne Albert, Composer
“Stunningly beautiful and awe inspiring - an incredibly colourful soundscape full of so many precious moments from the master of low flutes.” - David Temby, Temby Flutes
"This CD is a highly professonal production, with fine recordings and a marvelous set of performances by all concerned. There is pretty much something for everything here" - Dominy Clements (MusicWeb) Read less
Works on This Recording
2.
Irish in the Lowlands, for flutes by Sheridan Stokes
Performer:
Sheridan Stokes (),
Peter Sheridan (Contrabass Flute)
Date of Recording: 04/14/2008
Venue: Music Forever Studios, Encinco, CA
Length: 6 Minutes 26 Secs.
3.
Virtuosic Etudes: Winter Sun by Hilary Taggart
Performer:
Peter Sheridan ()
Date of Recording: 2008-09
Venue: Move Records Studio, Melbourne, Australi
Length: 1 Minutes 11 Secs.
6.
Madrigal for Flute and Piano by Philippe Gaubert
Performer:
John Sawoski (Piano),
Peter Sheridan ()
Period: 20th Century
Written: 1908; France
Date of Recording: 07/10/2007
Venue: Music Forever Studios, Encino, CA
Length: 4 Minutes 13 Secs.
7.
City Vignettes, for contrabass flute, double bass & piano by Patrick Neher
Performer:
Claire Cooper (Piano),
Peter Sheridan (Contrabass Flute),
Heather [Double Bass] Price (Double Bass)
Date of Recording: 2008-09
Venue: Move Records Studio, Melbourne, Australi
Length: 14 Minutes 59 Secs.
9.
Elegy, for contrabass flute & piano by Bruce Lawrence
Performer:
Peter Sheridan (Contrabass Flute),
Claire Cooper (Piano)
Date of Recording: 2008-09
Venue: Move Records Studio, Melbourne, Australi
Length: 3 Minutes 10 Secs.
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