Solos for Soprano Recorder or Flute Collection 2 summary

Challenging and Delightful Musical Selections

In Solos for Soprano Recorder or Flute Collection 2, Clark Kimberling presents a collection of 35 solos, specifically tailored for soprano recorder (advanced) or flute (intermediate). The book begins with an introduction that provides valuable hints for performance in school or church, including the use of a sound system, a fingering chart for recorder high notes, and notes regarding special techniques such as double tonguing, vibrato, and recorder glissando.

The author then moves on to the main part of the book, the musical selections. These include all-time favorite Christmas carols such as 'Silent Night', 'O Holy Night', and 'Hark! The Herald Angels Sing', as well as lesser-known gems from The Oxford Book of Carols. The pieces are arranged in ascending order of difficulty, offering a gradual increase in challenge and complexity.

A Unique Section of Historical Notes

What sets Solos for Soprano Recorder or Flute Collection 2 apart from other music collections is the unique section of carol-specific historical notes at the end of the book. These notes provide valuable insights into the origins and historical contexts of the carols, thereby enriching the performer's understanding and interpretation of the pieces.

For instance, the notes reveal how 'Good King Wenceslas' was a 13th-century carol that tells the story of the Duke of Bohemia, Wenceslaus I, and his act of charity towards a poor peasant during a harsh winter. Such historical background helps the performer connect more deeply with the music, enhancing their performance.

Practical and Performance-Oriented

Throughout the book, Kimberling maintains a practical and performance-oriented approach. The sheet music is well-laid-out, with clear indications for dynamics, articulations, and other performance directions. The pieces are designed to be easily adaptable for different performance settings, be it a solo recital, a chamber ensemble, or accompanying a choir.

Moreover, the author offers valuable performance tips specific to each piece, such as suggested tempos, breathing points, and phrasing. For example, he advises the performer to use a light, brisk tempo for 'Deck the Halls' to capture the lively, celebratory mood of the carol.

Bringing New Life to Age-Old Expressions

In conclusion, Solos for Soprano Recorder or Flute Collection 2 by Clark Kimberling is a valuable resource for flutists and recorder players, especially those interested in exploring Christmas-themed musical repertoire. The collection offers a delightful mix of familiar and lesser-known carols, presented in a progressive order of difficulty, along with historical context and performance tips.

By providing a detailed understanding of the carols and offering practical performance advice, Kimberling's collection allows musicians to bring new life to these age-old expressions of the Christmas spirit, making it a must-have for any flutist or recorder player looking to enhance their holiday repertoire.