Title: Interpreting the flute works of Jean Francaix (1912-1997)
Abstract:There is surprisingly little written about French composer Jean Francaix (1912-1997),
considering his prolific output of around 200 works. In addition to his numerous
compositions, Francaix was a ta...There is surprisingly little written about French composer Jean Francaix (1912-1997),
considering his prolific output of around 200 works. In addition to his numerous
compositions, Francaix was a talented orchestrator, conductor and pianist, touring
extensively throughout his lifetime. Over a quarter of his music was written for wind
instruments, and more than forty of these works are for flute, either as a prominent
solo instrument or in a chamber music setting. Although Francaix’s flute works are
technically demanding, they are pleasing to the ear, reflecting his desire to create
‘musique pour faire plaisir’. This research explores the translation of this aim through
Francaix’s flute music documented in a series of recitals featuring his works and an
accompanying exegesis. The written component contextualises the works performed,
interrogating the composer’s objectives through research of the historical background
and the technical and expressive mandate of these works.
Twelve of Francaix’s flute works have been chosen for this study, evenly soloistic and
chamber oriented, representing the style and various genres of his flute music.
Ranging from his Suite pour Flute Seule to the Quintette a Vent No. 1, these works
display characteristics of Francaix’s compositional style, including his use of
neoclassical techniques, modern harmonies and rhythms and his inherent French wit.
As the majority of literature on Francaix consists of reviews and brief mentions in
passing, there is little dealing with the interpretation of his music. Pedagogical aids
and recordings form necessary documentation for the analysis of Francaix’s intended
style. With informed knowledge of flautists, such as dedicatee Jean-Pierre Rampal,
and various educational manuscripts of the time, new ideas are explored.Reference is made to performance perspectives and solving technical issues in order
to answer the question of how to make this highly virtuosic music sound easy, and
create music that pleases audience and performers alike. Through exploration of the
context and aesthetic aims of his flute compositions, this original contribution restores
to the flute repertory the quality compositions of Jean Francaix.Read More
Publication Year: 2011
Publication Date: 2011-09-01
Language: en
Type: dissertation
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