Boireann: Music for Flute and Piano
Boireann features two compositions specifically crafted for this release. “Five Études for Two Flutes” reimagines earlier pieces for two violins, demonstrating Buckley’s ability to transpose musical ideas across different instrumental settings. “In Memoriam Doris Keogh,” a three-movement piece for flute and piano, reflects the broad musical interests of Buckley’s flute teacher, Doris Keogh, offering a touching tribute to her influence.
John Buckley’s illustrious career as a composer has earned him recognition worldwide. This new album is a testament to his deep connection with the flute, spanning over fifty years. From his early studies with the legendary Doris Keogh at the Royal Irish Academy of Music in Dublin to his most recent work, “In Memoriam Doris Keogh,” completed in 2022, the album captures the evolution of Buckley’s flute-centric repertoire. This collection superbly showcases his versatility as a composer.
The collaboration with talented flautists Emma Coulthard, Emma Halnan, and pianist David Appleton adds an extra layer of brilliance to the album, making it a captivating and enriching musical experience.
Track Listing
- Perpetuum Mobile 2:13
- Ebbing and Flowing 4:32
- Canon 2:27
- Duetto Notturno 3:53
- Streetcar 2:15
- I. Seascape 3:34
- II. Nocturne 6:02
- III. Dance 3:25
- I. Fantasia No. 1 2:54
- II. Fantasia No. 2 4:36
- Airflow (for solo flute) 5:03
- I. Nine Variations 2:27
- II. Through the Empty-Vaulted Night 4:57
- III. Stars and Dreams 4:07
- I. No. 1 3:38
- II. No. 2 2:49
- III. No. 3 2:59
- Sea Echoes (for glissando flute) 3:34
- Boireann (for flute and piano) 10:44
John Buckley:
Five Études for Two Flutes *
In Memoriam Doris Keogh (for flute and piano)
Two Fantasias for Alto Flute
Three Études for Piano (Études 1-3)
Three Pieces for Solo Flute
Reviews
“David Appleton gives a superb interpretation…and performed…with brilliant drama. Coulthard again plays with drama and excitement…This new album is…a fascinating cross-section of the entirety of Buckley’s writing for piano and especially flute….on display is the remarkable consistency of Buckley’s voice down the years. It is a speaking musical voice, unshowy but meaningful.
” —James Camien McGuiggan
“a…varied aural experience… intricate and insistently modern… attractively exploratory… particularly engaging
” —Mark J. Estren
“This disc serves as a dual portrait of [John] Buckley and of [Emma] Coulthard, and provides an enjoyable introduction to their work, both individually and together. The repertoire is a significant collection which is deserves to be better known. For Emma Coulthard, this debut disc is an important step in her career development and it’s wonderful to hear contemporary music performed with such dedication, care and passion. Highly recommended.
” —Carla Rees