Masterpieces for flute. Recommended pieces where the flute shines.

Hungarian Pastoral FantasyFranz Doppler

Doppler: Hungarian Pastoral Fantasy, Op. 26

This is a soothing masterpiece that vividly evokes the beautiful Hungarian countryside.

Composed by Franz Doppler, the work brings out the flute’s charm to the fullest.

Virtuosic playing and a richly expressive melody blend exquisitely, drawing listeners into a dreamlike world.

Written in 1870 and about 11 minutes in length, the piece skillfully weaves in elements of Hungarian folk songs and dances.

The flute’s elegant timbre seems to paint a vibrant picture of vast grasslands and traditional life.

Its warm, heartfelt melody is perfect for those seeking a calm, peaceful time.

Flute Sonata in G minorGeorg Friedrich Händel

Handel Flute Sonata / G minor / #Handel / Sonata in G minor #Flute

This is the Flute Sonata in G minor by George Frideric Handel, a German-born composer who was active in countries such as Italy and England.

It consists of four movements: a leisurely First Movement, Larghetto; a Second Movement, Andante, which conveys a sense of melancholy even amid motion; a short, roughly one-minute Third Movement, Adagio, that suggests an inner light leading to what follows; and a Fourth Movement, Presto, which bursts forth with a sense of liberation and lightness.

It is a classic masterpiece for flute that embodies the Baroque era.

The Last Letter from MurdockTarumiya Masanori

[Flute cover] The Last Letter from Murdoch / 1st Flute

Masanori Taruya’s wind band piece is a moving work themed on the tragedy of the Titanic.

There are many passages that feature the flute, whose gentle tone colors the story.

From a quiet opening that gradually builds in richness to melodies with a Nordic folk-dance flavor, it is full of elements that captivate listeners.

Since its first edition was released in May 2009, multiple versions—including special and small-ensemble editions—have been published, and the piece has been featured in many concerts and competitions.

While paying respect to a historical event, the work expresses the depth of humanity and heroic actions through music, making it highly recommended for those who wish to be moved by a poignant narrative.

Flute Sonata, H. 308Bohuslav Martinů

Martinu: Flute Sonata (reference recording only)

This is a chamber work for flute and piano by the Czech composer Bohuslav Martinů.

Written in the United States in 1945, the piece is characterized by a bright, hopeful atmosphere.

The flute’s beautiful melodies are exquisitely interwoven with the piano’s intricate accompaniment, captivating listeners’ hearts.

It conveys Martinů’s signature rhythmic vitality and optimistic mood, and offers a rewarding challenge for flutists.

It’s recommended for those who want to relax and listen on a quiet evening, or who wish to savor the full charm of the flute.

Through this work, why not immerse yourself in Martinů’s musical world?

Badinerie, No. 7 from Orchestral Suite No. 2 in B minor, BWV 1067J.S.Bach

Classical Masterpiece: J.S. Bach – Orchestral Suite No. 2, Movement 7 “Badinerie”

It is one of the signature works by J.S.

Bach, a composer representative of the Baroque era.

A lively duple-meter dance with the flute in the spotlight, it is characterized by virtuosic performance.

Showcasing the flute’s appeal to the fullest, this piece has captivated many with its light, graceful melodies and brilliant tone.

It is thought to have been composed between 1717 and 1723, when Bach served as Kapellmeister at the Köthen court.

Frequently used in films, television programs, and commercials, it is beloved by a wide audience.

It is also a popular item in flutists’ repertoires and is often chosen as an encore piece at concerts.

This is a recommended work when you want to savor an elegant atmosphere that lifts the spirit.

Flute ConcertoJacques Ibert

Ibert flute Concerto

Composed in 1932 by the French composer Jacques Ibert, this work is renowned as a masterpiece that fully brings out the flute’s allure.

Its distinctive, varied structure features an elegant, classical first movement, a passionate second movement, and a third movement described as “like fireworks suspended in midair.” At its 1934 premiere in Paris, Ibert is said to have smiled while listening to the radio broadcast from a hotel in Marseille.

Dedicated to flutist Marcel Moyse, the piece offers a full display of flute virtuosity—a must-hear for anyone captivated by the instrument.

EarthMuramatsu Takatsugu

[Ayako Takagi earth] T. Muramatsu – “earth,” a live performance by Ayako Takagi with pianist Itsuko Sakano.

Composed by Takanori Muramatsu and dedicated to Ayako Takagi, this piece is a masterpiece that showcases the flute’s radiant, beautiful timbre, crafted with the image of a lone flutist traveling the world.

It weaves a grand story of attempting to save an imperiled Earth through flute performance, with the piano accompaniment serving as an orchestral counterpart that supports the flute.

Recorded in October 2003 on Ayako Takagi’s album “EARTH,” the work was further elevated by her exceptional artistry.

It’s a highly recommended piece for those who want to savor the full allure of the flute or experience an epic narrative through music.