THE BIRDS

Original Works for Piccolo and Piano

Peter Verhoyen/piccolo; Stefan De Schepper/piano

The program notes of this CD start with a very interesting statement - ”A bird is known by it’s note”. I’m not sure whether this is a quote from somewhere or just an observation by the writer of the notes, Tom Janssens. Anyway , he goes on to discuss the fact that the piccolo was largely written for in a clichéd , unvaried way during it’s heyday in the 19th century , and the composers paid little attention to knowing the bird which is the piccolo, if you know what I mean!

Needless to say, this CD represents the works of composers who have made every effort to write well for the clever and versatile instrument with which I earn my living.

Here we have the likes of Sigfrid Karg-Elert, Robert Beaser and Leos Janacek from the very early to mid 20th century, as well as four fellow countrymen of the performers who are have been writing more recently.

In the repertoire list there are numerous musical references to birds - this is the theme of the CD and it’s a lot of fun as well as being an obvious way to show case some of the best qualities of the instrument.

Verhoyen is Flemish and is Principal Piccolo in the Royal Flanders Philharmonic Orchestra as well as a teacher and chamber musician. He is a fine player and I would love to hear him play live.

This CD presents a wonderful selection of well written pieces so less experienced composers may aspire to write properly for an instrument which can present problems, as well as being for students and teachers desperate for interesting piccolo repertoire.

Rosamund Plummer has extensive performing experience in Australia, UK and USA, and is currently Principal Piccolo with the Sydney Symphony, and combines a busy family life with her work as a part time lecturer in Flute at the Conservatorium of Music.