Sonatas for Flute and Piano Composed in 1994, 1995, 1996, and 1997 and Performed at the National Flute Association Conventions in Those Years

Abstract

This dissertation project examines recent contributions to the flute sonata genre and provides insights into the compositional techniques of their composers. Because of the abundance of flute sonatas written in the last decade, the scope of this study concentrates on those sonatas composed in 1994, 1995, 1996 and 1997 and performed at the National Flute Association Conventions in those years. The dissertation involves the performance of three recitals which will help to disseminate this literature to professional and lay audiences. The first recital, September 21, 1998, includes sonatas by Samuel Zyman, Gary Schocker and Matthew Halper. The second recital, November 14, 1998, includes sonatas by Elisenda Fabregas and Mike Mower. The third recital, Aprill, 1999, includes sonatas by Martin Hennessy and Jeff Manookian. Extensive program notes for the recitals include a biography of each composer focusing on recent achievements, awards and professional positions and an overview and brief analysis of each work. Appendices provide a listing of each composer's works to date (Appendix A), 1 examples of the main themes from each of the sonatas discussed (Appendix B) and copies of the programs performed (Appendix C). A bibliography is also included. This performance dissertation highlights the effectiveness of the National Flute Association as a vehicle for the creation and performance of new music. By focussing on the sonatas performed at the conventions in the years 1994, 1995, 1996 and 1997, the variety of new flute sonatas being composed is illustrated. Insights into each sonata are presented, derived from discussions, interviews (live, telephone and e-mail) and correspondence with each of the composers involved in this project.