Joseph Gething – Themes For Flute Book 2 (Flute & Piano)

The alternative harmonies in this arrangement by Rebecca Faith make it a highly emotive interpretation. The piano takes control of the main melody, with the flute adding beautiful harmony and decorative features. The phrases O Come All Ye Faithful and Joyful and Triumphant are explored in shifting keys and harmonies adding a unique richness. However, the melody is still strongly present leaving the listener satisfied that they have heard the much loved tune.

In this arrangement the exploration of register and alternative harmonies, together with the sustain pedal, creates an image of sound reverberation in open spaces. The piano's open fifths in the middle of the piece gives an eastern feel. Rebecca Faith has added a new original theme alongside the main melody that gives a fresh unique quality - this theme immediately sets the atmosphere in the piano introduction and is later heard more powerfully on the flute, returning at the close of the piece in the high register of the piano creating a music box like feel.

La Fille Aux Cheveux Dores (The Girl with the Golden Hair), composed by Paul Lewis and dedicated to Rachel Smith, is a study in extreme legato and breath control. It is sensuous, delicate, intimate and very French, and has the most gorgeous and romantic tune imaginable. Rachel Smith recorded this work in April 2012 on the CD The World of the Flute, released in 2013 by Polyphonic, QPRZ 029D.

A lively interpretation by Rebecca Faith, the Joy to the World melody is heard layered with original melodies and motifs. An interesting rhythmic idea binds the piece together making it sparkle and dance, with the underlying semiquaver movement creating an exciting shimmer effect. The constant shifting of key, texture and melodic ideas makes this an arrangement that will keep both the performer and listener on their toes.