- Michael Nyman
Flugelhorn and Piano (1991)
- Chester Music Ltd (World)
Commissioned by Graham Ashton
Programme Note
Michael Nyman wrote Flugel and Piano for me during a period when I felt his approach to the writing and recording of his music was changing quite considerably. I had given him very few guidelines as I did not want to restrict his writing. I knew the result would be a difficult piece, as Michael had often said he likes to hear the performer 'fighting' the instrument. Flugel and Piano is a fight for a couple of reasons: firstly, the flugel does not like being played in the key of D sharp minor, especially with a trombone 'bucket mute' - unfortunately, this was all that I could find to fit over the larger flugel bell; secondly, the flugel enjoys being flat at the top register, making top Cs and Ds a nightmare! Michael's reaction on hearing the recording was that he found the piece surprisingly emotional.
© Graham Ashton
© Graham Ashton
Discography

- LabelVirgin Classics
- Catalogue NumberVC 45003 2
- SoloistGraham Aston, trumpet / John Lenehan, piano