Keith Gates: Music
Concerto for Flute and Orchestra
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Several years ago, I was awarded the National Flute Association's Newly Published Music Award for my Sonatina for Flute and Piano. Judy Hand, my colleague from McNeese State University, performed it at the following year's convention and subsequently recorded it on her CD "The Flute Music of Keith Gates". She also introduced me to many talented flutists from across the United States and abroad. One of the amazing flutists that I met was Susan Milan, from England. I later had the opportunity to get better acquainted with her and her playing at a masterclass that she gave at McNeese the following year. It was there that, after hearing my Sonatina, Susan Milan commissioned me to write a concerto for her. I was excited to have the honor of writing an extended work for such a gifted musician.
The concerto was premiered in Lake Charles, Louisiana with the Lake Charles Symphony, William Kushner, conducting. After the premiere, Susan told me that she loved the concerto, but had some suggestions for improving it, including changing several passages that were not idiomatic for the flute. The end of the last movement was completely reorchestrated as a result of our discussions. The concerto is a much better work because of these changes which were prompted by Susan's thoughtful advice.
I am grateful for Susan Milan's commission of the Concerto for Flute and Orchestra and was delighted to dedicate it to her.
Keith Gates
April 11, 2007