Flute is one of the oldest instruments, so it makes sense that there would be a huge list of solo flute repertoire available. But the selection can be overwhelming if you don’t know where to look.
Luckily, you can narrow down your choices with a few considerations. Of course, there’s your playing level, but there are tons of other factors that can affect your choices.
So keep reading to learn how to choose solo flute repertoire!
But first, this post contains affiliate links. Click here for my full disclosure policy. Now, let’s get into it!
Find Pieces You Like
There is so much solo flute repertoire out there, you probably couldn’t play all of it in an entire lifetime. Because of that, you can most likely find at least a few pieces that you enjoy.
You can listen to different pieces from multiple composers and musical eras. Whenever you find a flute piece you like, write it down. Whenever you need to choose solo flute repertoire, you can go to the list for ideas.
You may need to play some pieces that you don’t like as much. But the more you listen to flute music, the better you can determine what you like. Then, you can find a variety of pieces that suit your playing and any requirements your teacher may have.
Search for a Challenge
You should also look for pieces that will challenge you and push you a little. If you never push yourself, you won’t grow as a musician. You don’t have to play the most difficult piece out there (and you probably shouldn’t).
But look for pieces that force you to work on a particular technique. For example, I had a hard time with fluttertonguing. To combat that, I worked on Image by Bozza, which features a fluttertonguing section.
If you have trouble with singing and playing, find pieces that include that technique. Or if you are just learning some of the higher notes on the flute, find solo flute repertoire that uses those notes occasionally.
Look at Different Eras
Eventually, you may choose to specialize in music from a certain era, such as Baroque or Contemporary music. But as you are learning, you should study repertoire from different time periods.
For one, you can see if you want to focus on a particular era. But it can also open you up to more composers and styles. You may find you like a certain type of music more than you expected.
The flute has been around for a long time, so you can find flute music for almost any era. Then, you can diversify your solo flute repertoire and learn even more about music.
Piece Popularity
Some pieces are much more common than others and for a good reason. It’s important to study pieces like the Bach Sonatas, Mozart Concerti, and French conservatory works. If you ever want to teach flute lessons, you’ll need to know about those pieces to teach your students.
But you also shouldn’t focus on just the most popular flute works. Consider looking at less common works in similar styles. If you like Bach, try learning a sonata from Ana Bon.
Mozart fans can learn other classical pieces, like CPE Bach Sonatas or the Minuet and Dance of the Blessed Spirits by Gluck. And if you like Romantic music, try looking at the less popular pieces in the Flute Music by French Composers book.
Timely or Holiday Pieces
If you’re looking to learn a piece quickly or for a themed recital, consider the time of year. Think about if there are any upcoming holidays or events to celebrate.
For example, you can learn some Christmas or Hanukkah songs in November and December. Then, you can play songs like Good King Wenceslas or Carol of the Bells on a recital.
Another option is to celebrate Black History Month in February by playing music by Black composers. Or you can play music by women composers in March for Women’s History Month!
What About Duets?
While there is a ton of solo flute repertoire, you can also play duets! Duets are a great way to work on playing with others. You can play them in lessons with your students or with a friend.
Flute duets are also great if you don’t want to worry about playing with a pianist. While a piano part is often important, you may not have access to a piano. And you may not have the money to hire someone to play for you.
A flute duet can still get you the experience playing with others, but you can be more flexible. You can play at home or outside, and you can even record yourself and send your recordings to your duet partner.
And if you’re looking for some flute duets for this holiday season, check out Flute Files for a few popular holiday songs!
So…
Are you looking for some new solo flute repertoire? Do you have a hard time choosing pieces to work on? Keep these tips in mind next time you need to find more music for flute!