Jacob’s Ladder (solo Bb/C)

This flute solo begins with the piano playing a gentle motif of the theme and then joined in with the solo line playing the theme in a straight forward fashion. The theme is now stated in a modified manner while the soloist exudes a moving obbligato line which adds more excitement to the piece. The piece concludes with the latter section of the first section and then settles into a solemn repose.

This solo with piano is structured in a quasi-rondo form. Thus making a great deal of variety in texture, style, and dynamic. It will make the young performer sound more advanced.

This solo is plaintive throughout as it begins with a simple melodic motive. The first verse is simply stated in the solo while supported with broken chords in the piano. The second verse is much like the first but the piano not supports the tune with gentle punctuations. The third verse is in the piano while the solo line produces a ebb and repose obbligato- the two line join together in a dramatic cadence and then settles down to a quite repose where the piano continues in a solemn flavor. The final statement in the solo is much like the first where it is joined with moving scale patterns in the piano. The two players sweep upward one last time to then settle down into solemnity.

Taken from the “Messiah”, this solo with piano is essentially a transcription of the original work. The balance in the writing between the solo and the accompaniment gives way to the sensitivity of the text of this well-know aria..