| Written in the late Romantic era, Carl Reinecke's compositions are increasingly interesting to current musicians, particularly flutists. His three major flute works are now part of the established repertoire for the instrument. To better appreciate his Flute Sonata 'Undine' op. 167, Concerto for Flute and Orchestra op. 283, and Ballade for Flute and Orchestra op. 288, several facets of his life are explored before analyzing the works themselves.;The strict pedagogical influence of his musically conservative father impacted Reinecke's entire career. He taught in various German conservatories, seeking a permanent post suitable to his multi-faceted musicianship. Considered the premiere Mozart pianist of his time, he concertized throughout Europe. Also an adept arranger, Reinecke revised the entire collections of composers such as Beethoven and Chopin. He wrote prolifically as well, authoring many pedagogical booklets and composer biographies.;In Leipzig, the most prominent musical center of Europe, Carl Reinecke ultimately attained the prestigious double position of director of the Gewandhaus Orchestra and professor of composition and piano at Leipzig Conservatory. Composing for a wide variety of genres, at the outset he emulated Mendelssohn and later Schumann. He found increasing discord with the New Germans such as Liszt and Wagner, insisting that he could not compose against his convictions. At the core of this late Romantic musical conflict was the validity of program music.;The dualism of Reinecke's classicist stance and his penchant for fantasy mirror the Romantic dichotomy. His Flute Sonata 'Undine' thus provides fascinating study, combining classical form with the programmatic story of a water spirit who longs for a soul. Considered the only true Romantic flute sonata, it looms above the general nineteenth century flute repertoire, which was hampered by the concurrent development of the modern flute from the former simple system.;At age 84 Reinecke wrote his other two major flute works, both permeated with late Romantic harmony, skillful counterpoint, and his ever-pleasant melodies. In-depth analysis of the Sonata, Concerto and Ballade reveals solid form and cohesive style. Performance suggestions and a transcription of the Concerto aim to promote dissemination of this valuable flute repertoire. |
