Hymntunes IV: Imenetuki – Gospel Chant from the Cook Islands

Hymntunes IV :  Imenetuki – Gospel Chant from the Cook Islands for Alto Flute or Bass Flute by Robert Fruehwald (1995, rev. 1998)

Contains instructions for extended techniques used :  tongue stops, key clicks, key slaps, multiphonics, harmonics.

Hymntunes IV is based on a simple two phrase chant from the Cook Islands.  The first phase appears on page one in the section marked “Slowly with Rubato”.  Variations on this phrase appear throughout the piece.  The second phrase appears only toward the end, on page 4, starting in measure 91.  The other material in the piece is based on drumming patterns from various islands in the South Pacific.  These drumming patterns are generally started by certain rhythmic signals, much as a band director might start a band by tapping on the music stand or by blowing a whistle.  These rhythmic signals are initiated in the work when tempo changes are indicated.

While this piece has its technical difficulties, remember: the rhythms, timbres and effects are the most important things in the piece.  It is acceptable to sacrifice precision to dramatic effect.  —- R. Fruehwald