Sketch for C.B. (two Flutes and Piano)

Eben Sketch for C.B. (two Flutes and Piano)

This composition was written in 1972 as a little gift for the big birthday of an important artist and enthusiastic musical amateur, Cyril Bouda.  Although his technique of flute playing was not up to the level of his love for music, I just could not offer him an exercise for school children; I therefore wanted to write a composition that would give him and listeners the illusion of being on the level of a concert piece.

That was how this little trio movement came into existence, combining the very undemanding "pupil's" flute part with the advanced technique for the "teacher's" flute part and for the pianist.  The choice of theme was linked to the dedication of the work: the folk song "Podebrady Gateway" sings about painting that "did not spare the colours".

I think that even a pupil of our public music schools - whether a flautist, oboist or clarinettist - despite his/her standard as a beginner could taste the delights of advanced chamber ensemble playing with a teacher and learn from this experience how to incorporate a very simple part into the virtuoso, combined weaving of other voices. (Petr Eben)