Lureley's Delight - J.W. Nelleke (solo flute, flute ensemble)

The composition, written for solo flute accompanied by an eight-part flute ensemble, showcases a rich blend of textures and timbres.

In the ensemble flute 1 doubles on picc. and flutes 7 and 8 double on alto. If there are not enough altos then part 7 can be played on normal flute (an alternative part has been provided).

The ensemble can be 8 single players, or a multiple thereof as long as balance can be achieved where the solo flute is still audible. It was premiered in 2006 by Philippa Davies on solo flute, accompanied by a large flute choir of mainly amateur players.

The piece was commisioned by Atarah Ben Tovim for the British Flute Society Convention 2006 in Manchester. The brief was to write a short composition with a substantial solo part and ensemble parts that do not need too much rehearsing but are fun to play.

Inspired by the striking horizontally layered rocks of Orkney, I began crafting a piece that captures the essence of the landscape through its ensemble parts. The introduction of a free solo section emerged from the image of someone peeking over a rock, evoking the legend of Lorelei—an enchanting figure perched above the Rhine, whose beauty and song mesmerized sailors, leading them to their doom. The very name Lorelei, stemming from the words "luren" (to peer) and "lei" (rock), became my central muse. The historical spelling, lureley, further hinted at her ability to lure, enhancing her mystique. However, I deliberately steered clear of the typical 19th-century portrayal of a tragic femme fatale. Instead, I reimagined her as a figure who revels in bewitching and pursuing her unsuspecting victims, thus giving birth to the concept of "Lurely's Delight."

Duration: 5'10

Publisher: Nutscale Music NM-2302