At the end of my undergraduate studies, with all my projects finished (especially my massive Cello Sonata), I relaxed by tossing off this clever little suite in neo-Baroque style. It consists of a Prelude followed by the usual Baroque suite of dances: Allemande, Courante, Sarabande, Minuet and Gigue. I enjoyed spiking up the harmonies from time to time and inserting Stravinskyesque rhythmic quirks. Nevertheless, the whole remains true, I think, to the spirit of the Baroque suite, full of sequences, fortspinnung sections and lots of contrapuntal writing, not to mention plenty of engaging melodies. I think my favourite movement is the Sarabande (suggestive of Handel), with its duet between the alto flute and the viola both playing in their sumptuous lower registers.

    The full score may be downloaded by clicking on the button. If you wish to obtain players' parts, please send me an email - below - and I'll be glad to send the files, with the (strict) stipulation that you inform me if you program it so that I can keep my Performances page up-to-date. Everything is available from the Canadian Music Centre too.

    Talented amateur players will enjoy this piece, and Jacqueline Ogg once expressed great interest in choreographing it. I think that would be a great idea!