Deux Romances, Flute and Piano

Son of a military bandleader, Xavier Leroux (1863-1919) was a French composer who studied at the Paris Conservatoire under Jules Massenet and Théodore Dubois. Although primarily known for his Operas, Leroux'sDeux Romancesfor Flute and Piano remain prominent in the instrument's repertoire.

Dedicated to Philippe Gaubert, the first Romance is composed in A minor. Characteristics are typical of the French romantic era, such as semiquaver flourishes, use of the sultry lower register of the Flute, variations in articulation, much use of performance directions and chromaticisms, among otheraspects. For all aspiring, advanced flautists, Leroux'sDeux Romancesmake for a sublime addition to the repertoire.