Fantasia on a Theme by Thomas Tallis

Written for solo flute quartet and flute ensemble.

Duration: 16 “

Arranged by Flute Society of Kentucky founder and professor of flute Lisa R. McArthur, this edition of a piece originally written for string orchestra gives flute players the opportunity to play this lush, expressive masterpiece, inspired by the English Renaissance. For advanced players. 

This magnificent work by Ralph Vaughan Williams was composed in 1910 for solo string quartet and a string ensemble divided into two equal choirs. It was one of Vaughan Williams' most popular works. The original version of this piece has been used frequently in movies, including Master and Commander: The Far Side of the World in 2003. This flute arrangement is written for solo flute quartet (2 flutes/picc, alto flute, bass flute) and two flute ensembles (2 flute parts, alto flute, bass flute in each ensemble), retaining the rich sonorities and flowing melodies of the original piece. This arrangement would be ideal for a large ensemble or as a piece for two groups to combine and perform.