When I first received the score of Cecile Charminade’s Flute Concertino Op. 107, I was deeply impressed — how could a male composer come out with such dolce notes? As I researched more, it turned out to be that this Concertino was composed by a French lady for her flute-playing lover who abandoned her to marry another woman. Since long, music speaks the rythem of love. However unique, this challenging piece displayed a love-hate relationship between the composer and the flutist. 

Long been an examination piece for flute students in Paris Conservatory, this Concertino has never been easy for me, though it has been my all-time favourite. The 8-minute long music required much stamina to complete. Often running out of air for the opening phrases, I struggled to figure out the correct tempo and rush through the highly decorative melody on time. During the cadence, I had to watch out for clear-cut short notes, smooth fingering as well as the color. Years of practice is a prerequisite to master this piece. 

Initially, it was meant for flute and orchestra. As this work gained popularity, Charminade arranged it for flute and piano. When I tried with my friend playing the piano accompaniment for me, it was starkly different from playing it alone as much tacit understating is required. Nevertheless, it was an enjoyable experience as music is the only way of communication. Hopefully, I can have the opportunity of perform Charminade Concertino with an orchestra one day. 

Wang Chenwei