Alto flute orchestral repertoire involves musical compositions written to be performed by an orchestra but with an alto flute part in it. In most cases, musical compositions written for the C flute in an orchestra can be transposed and performed with an alto flute and in the orchestra. This is different from the alto flute and orchestra repertoire.
Alto Flute Orchestral Repertoire List
Below is a list of original compositions involving the alto flute in an orchestra;
Title | Composer | Instrumentation |
Adresse des sterbenden Dichters an die Jugend | Bird Melvin Clive | 3 voices, flute, alto flute, English horn, clarinet, 2 violins, viola, cello, double bass, piano |
Knight, Death, and Devil | Rzewski Frederic | alto flute, bass clarinet, percussion, 3 violins, viola, 2 cellos, piano |
The Rite of Spring | Igor Stravinsky | full orchestra |
Templos | Ruiz Molina David | alto flute, English horn, bass clarinet, celesta, percussion, violin, viola, cello |
‘Sunrise’ Interlude, V.40 | Vaitzman Or | flute, alto flute, bass flute, glass harmonica, 4 violins, cello, double bass, viol, organ |
Roundelay | Bird Melvin Clive | flute, alto flute, clarinet, horn, trombone, guitar, 2 violins, viola, cello, double bass, 2 pianos, electronic sounds |
Aristeas I | Bird Melvin Clive | voice, alto flute, English horn, bass clarinet, bass trombone, tuba, 2 violins, viola, cello, double bass |
Let All Mortal Flesh Keep Silence | Bird Melvin Clive | voice, alto flute, English horn, bass clarinet, bass trombone, tuba, 2 violins, viola, cello, double bass |
The Shield of Achilles | Bird Melvin Clive | voice, alto flute, English horn, bass clarinet, bass trombone, tuba, 2 violins, viola, cello, double bass |
See also: Alto flute repertoire
Alto Flute and Orchestra Repertoire
Alto flute and orchestra repertoire is a kind of musical composition written for the alto flute and orchestra. In this case, the alto flute is the principal and outstanding instrument. This is usually a case of an alto flute concerto.
Alto flute and orchestra repertoire list
Below is a list of alto flute and orchestral repertoire;
Title | Composer | Instrumentation |
Adagio, Op.36 | Schwencke Johann Friedrich | Alto flute & orchestra |
Chamber Concerto for Alto Flute, Op.1311 | Beatty, Stephen | Alto flute & orchestra |
Lamentations (Alto Flute Concerto) | Anthony Joseph Lanman | Alto flute & orchestra |
The First Days of Winter | Seycara | Alto flute & orchestra |
Mirrie Dancers | Tomi Räisänen | Alto flute & orchestra |
Considerations for Selecting Alto Flute Orchestral Repertoire
When selecting an alto flute orchestral repertoire, there are several important factors to consider to ensure that the pieces chosen are appropriate for the performer’s technical level but also musically and artistically valuable.
Technical Demands and Difficulty Level
One of the primary considerations when selecting an alto flute orchestral repertoire is the technical demands and difficulty level of each piece. Flutists should choose repertoire that challenges them while also being within their technical abilities. It is important to select pieces that allow the flutist to showcase their technical proficiency while also allowing room for growth and development.

Musical and Artistic Value
Another important consideration is the musical and artistic value of the repertoire. Flutists should aim to select pieces that are musically engaging and artistically significant. The repertoire chosen should demonstrate a variety of styles and moods, from lyrical and expressive to fast-paced and exciting. This will ensure that the flutist can showcase their range and versatility, as well as keep audiences engaged.
Interpretation and Phrasing
Interpretation and phrasing are also important considerations when selecting alto flute orchestral repertoire. Flutists should study each piece carefully to understand its structure, dynamics, and nuances. This will allow them to interpret the piece in a way that is musically and artistically compelling. Additionally, phrasing is crucial in creating a cohesive and expressive performance. Flutists should pay close attention to the phrasing of each piece and strive to create seamless and meaningful musical phrases.
By considering these factors when selecting alto flute orchestral repertoire, flutists can create performances that are technically proficient, musically and artistically valuable, and emotionally engaging. Ultimately, the goal is to create memorable and impactful performances that leave a lasting impression on audiences.
