Fantasiestucke

Fantasiestücke, Op. 73
Composed by Robert Schumann
for Flute and Piano
Arranged by Mark Sparks
Published by Theodore Presser Co.
Duration: c. 11 minutes
Includes score and flute part

Originally for Clarinet and Piano, Robert Schumann's deep yet delightful set of three FANTASIESTUCKE, Op. 73 has long been a staple of the repertoire, with transriptions occasionally seeping into other instruments' libraries as well. The work has been elegantly adapted (into a new key) for Flute and Piano by Mark Sparks, principal flutist of the Saint Louis Symphony.

Notes on the Edition, by Mark Sparks
      The remarkable and imaginative FANTASIESTUCKE, Op. 73, were originally composed for clarinet and piano during 2 days in February 1849. Schumann indicated that the pieces could also be played on cello or viola. This arrangement for flute and piano has been transposed from the original key of A major to C major in order to limit octave transfer and facilitate performance, while still preserving the original, rather darker-hued timbral character of the work. 
      Flutists will delight in the extremely lyrical and evocative nature of the writing, especially the capricious middle section of the second piece, “Lebhaft, leicht (Lively, light),” and the brilliant, effusive third piece, “Rasch und mit Feuer” (Quick and with fire). The virtuosic practice of repeating the eighth-note in the opening melody of the final piece, adopted from editions for cello, is also well-suited to the flute.
      Phrases of appropriate length, relatively few potential balance problems, and the accessibility of the pieces for all levels of performers and audiences make the FANTASIESTUCKE a natural, pleasant, and versatile addition to the flutist's recital repertoire.