Liebermann Sonata

[andrew2lu]

I'm thinking of tackling Lowell Liebermann's flute sonata. How does this piece rank in technical difficulty compared to other flute standards? (ie Copland Duo, Muczynski Sonata, Burton Sonatine, Nielsen Concerto). Thanks!

[fluteguy18]

In terms of technique? As in finger/articulation technique? Moderate. I played it as a sophomore/junior in my undergraduate the same time that I learned Nielsen. I learned it after I learned Ibert, but before Jolivet. It's difficulty is not in the finger technique but in sustaining a sense of melodic continuity. Creating lines and gestures through both moments of precarious technical passages as well as ones that are technically barren. So if I had to 'categorize' it, I'd say it's a viable precursor to the Ibert/Nielsen/Jolivet triad, and similarly to the Muczynski or Prokofiev.