After the violence and destruction of the First World War, a new musical aesthetic developed in Paris. Following the publication of Jean Cocteau’s famous pamphlet Le Coq et l’Arlequin, Impressionist influences were denigrated and instead simplicity in expression was promoted. This album of flute music charts this new ‘Harlequin’ direction, from old school adherent Pierre de Bréville to foreign musicians such as Tansman and Antheil who flocked to the city. Foremost among the exponents are members of the famous Groupe des Six whose innovations challenged and changed French wind music forever.

There are several world premiere recordings in this release, namely Bréville’s Une flûte dans les vergers, Honneger’s Vocalise-Étude, and Harsányi’s 3 Pièces for piano and flute.

After a long standing orchestral career with the Netherlands Radio Philharmonic Orchestra, flautist Thies Roorda now dedicates himself to specific periods of the flute repertoire that are of particular interest to him. His Naxos recordings, such as the complete works for flute by Karg-Elert and works by Widor, have received critical acclaim.