Five for Flute + Organ
Cooman, Fedak, Pavlechko, Phillips, White

Review
"This varied collection of five pieces is dedicated to flautist Virginia Schaap in honor of her twenty-five years with Selah Publishing. Each work has a distinct character that lends itself to different occasions. Alfred Fedak's Toccata Giocosa is a cheerful romp featuring staccato patterns for the flute based on triads and repeated notes. A contrasting middle section presents a legato statement of the hymn tune VESPER HYMN. David Ashley White's Soliloquy has a searching, yearning quality throughout, featuring a clarity and economy of writing. While the flute dominates through several solo cadenzas, the organ is twice used in melodic dialogue with the flute to great effect. The Pastorale Variations of Thomas Pavlechko are in simple theme and variation form, with a saraband-like rhythm and a repeating, harmonically static accompaniment that provides great stillness. Never Alone by Craig Phillips is inspired by a painting of a figure under a tree, reproduced here in black and white, and is an excerpt from a suite of six pieces for flute, violin, and organ; the complete suite and PowerPoint presentation of the artwork are available from the publisher. A long-breathed melody floats above in the flute as chords build slowly in the organ, creating a meditative atmosphere. Closing the collection is a Scherzetto by Carson Cooman in a rollicking 6/8 meter. Scale figures and articulated staccato figures dominate but are relieved by a central cantabile melody. An optional repeat is provided if a more extended piece is desired. Overall, this is a fine collection of music for flute and organ in a variety of accessible contemporary styles." --AAM Journal, March/April 2023