The recording opens with Vaughan Williams' The Lark Ascending; this favourite from the classical repertoire is a perfect fit for flute, an instrument often used to depict birdsong. There are dazzling showpieces from Saint-Saëns and Sarasate plus Paganini's 24th Caprice which features flutter tongueing (Variation 5), and pop tongueing (Variation 7). Katherine's beautiful tone is showcased on works such as Kreisler's Liebesleid and Massenet's Meditation from Thaïs.
All the solo violin parts have been transcribed and adapted for flute by Katherine herself.
Note from Katherine
My reason for recording this selection of repertoire is a desire to offer a new perspective on familiar compositions. Today the modern flute is able to transport its listeners through many emotions, evoking numerous sound colours and nuances, and is capable of speaking above an orchestra. I feel that primarily, I am a musician rather than a flautist, and most importantly, I see my instrument simply as a vehicle through which to interpret music. I recognize that every instrument has different characteristics and will inevitably reveal different facets of a piece. It is for these reasons that I offer you this recording, hoping it will present a fresh view on some much-loved works.
I would like to thank all the violinists who have inspired me, and to my family for their constant support.
Planet Hugill
'...a testament to Katherine Bryan's intelligence and musicianship...'
more >>
MusicWeb International
'It’s the virtuoso showpieces that really make you sit up and take notice...warmly recommended.'
more >>
BBC Scotland 'Classics Unwrapped'
'Beautiful playing. Absolutely stunning…A wonderful range of repertoire. And it’s all music people would know and love…Just one of many fabulous transcriptions for much-loved violin repertoire, but for the flute, on a terrific CD called the "Silver Bow".'
The Scotsman
'A breathtaking package.'
more >>
BBC Radio 3 'In Tune'
'She plays glitteringly…and beautifully…It gives a different texture and a different way into the piece...Fantastic! Katherine Bryan you’ve made the case!'