Bagatelles I and II

Bagatelles I and II
Composed by Anton Dvorak
for Expandable Flute Choir
Arranged by Ricky Lombardo
Published by Lombardo Music Publications
Includes score and parts

Instrumentation:
4 C Flutes
Alto Flute (or C Flute Substitute)
C or Bass Flute
Contrabass Flute

Besides being an organist, this Czech composer is considered one of the most important composers of the Romantic era.

Performance Notes:
      The Bagatelles I & II are two of five that were written by Dvorak. This collection was originally composed for two violins, cello and harmonium or piano. I always thought these would be great for the expandable flute choir. The two arrangements are of medium technical difficulty with the first Bagatelle being somewhat easier than the second. Bagatelle II on the other hand will be a bigger challenge. There are many repeated articulations coupled with numerous dynamic changes that are essential to the success of the arrangement. They are critical to bringing the music to life and keeping it from sounding like an exercise. Once mastered, the arrangements will be among some of your favorites. These are exciting additions to the flute choir repertoire. Enjoy! – Ricky Lombardo

The Expandable Form:
      The concept of the expandable form gives a great deal of versatility in any flute choir situation. This arrangement works successfully using a quartet of “C” flutes on the first four parts. As instruments are added they expand harmonic support, reinforce a line of another part and/or introduce new counter melodies. The integrity of the arrangement is never compromised. It is only enhanced. The expandable flute choir arrangement has been widely embraced by flute choirs worldwide.