Muczynski, R :: Duos for Flutes op. 34

Robert Muczynski was one of the leading American composers during the 20th century. His compositions for flute include the famous Sonata for Flute and Piano, the Duos for 2 Flutes (Op. 34a) or for Flute and Clarinet (Op. 34b), and others.

The Duo for Two Flutes was written in 1973 and offers unique challenges. The Duos alternate between slower lyrical movements and faster dance like movements.

The first movement consists of an expansive melody in the first flute that soars above a slow ascending 2nd flute line. The second movement is a lively dance in mixed meters that is reminiscent of a sailor dance and song. In the third movement, the flutes trade off expressive melodic lines that twist around each other until they come to a unison ending. The fourth movement is a unison rhythmic and  melodic chase with interspersed simple and compound subdivisions that keep the performers and listeners on the edge of their seats. Possibly the most beautiful and lyrical movement, the fifth movement relies on the close harmonies and intonation of the instruments to create an atmosphere of calmness and peace. The last movement is a string of constant eighth notes that races to a thrilling conclusion.