146. Little bombs of Virtuosity - Nicola Woodward

The musical genius that is Charles Koechlin (1867 - 1950)

In 'Talking Flutes' this week Clare speaks via Zoom with musician and flute player Nicola Woodward about her study of, and recording of the 'Chants de Nectaire', 96 unaccompanied pieces by Koechlin.

Charles Koechlin (1867-1950) was a French composer who although unduly neglected during his lifetime is finally earning the recognition he deserves as equal of great composers like Faure, Debussy and Ravel.  He seems to have had a particular affinity with the flute, possibly because in its simplest form it is the most primitive and natural of instruments, closest to the human voice. The ‘Chants de Nectaire’ op 198 199 and 200 constitute one of the greatest works for flute both in terms of length and quality. Koechlin’s writing is so idiomatic and sensitive that it is hard to believe that he did not play the flute himself. 

For more information visit www.nicolawoodward.uk 

'Talking Flutes' and 'Talking Flutes Extra' are podcast productions by the TJ flute company.  For more information visit www.trevorjamesflutes.com