Description
Sinfonia from “Non sa che sia dolore”
Composed by Johann Sebastian Bach (1685-1750)
Arranged for Flute Choir by Robert Karl Webb
Published by Alry Publications
Includes score and parts
Instrumentation:
4 C Flutes
Alto Flute
Bass Flute
String Bass
A delightful arrangement of the overture for this cantata (BWV 209). There is a lovely solo flute line with interesting and challenging parts in the accompaniment.
Performance Notes:
The original overture for the secular cantata, “Non sa che sia dolore”, by J.S. Bach, was written as a flute solo with string accompaniment. This arrangement has kept true to the spirit of the solo flute, but has also made the role of the first violin, now the second flute part, a contrasting and competitive solo part to the first flute. For this reason the first and second flute should be placed at opposite ends of the stage.
The flute parts 3, 4, and alto play both the role of the accompanying strings and that of the continuo. Sometimes these performers are part of the string ensemble and sometimes they are playing an accompaniment that would ordinarily be played by a harpsichord. It is importatnt that these performers know which of the two roles they are playing and adjust their playing style accordingly.
The bass flute and string bass are very important to the performance of this piece. It is suggested that a bass clarinet can be substituted for these instruments if necessary.
– Robert Karl Webb