Bridget Douglas on Music, Collaboration and the Joy of Performance

I’m delighted to be performing both the Arnold Flute Concerto No.1 and Poulenc’s Flute Sonata in this DSO concert, as they are two of the most brilliant and idiomatic works written for the flute in the twentieth century. They beautifully contrast the cultural characteristics of their countries through two distinct sound worlds. Arnold’s concerto sparkles with exuberant British wit, alongside moments of tender melancholy. It’s rhythmically playful and brilliantly orchestrated, giving the flute a chance to be both mischievous and expressive. By contrast, Poulenc’s Sonata — especially in Lennox Berkeley’s orchestration — is elegant, intimate, and unmistakably French. Its refined lyricism and phrasing are tinged with nostalgia, creating a deep emotional connection.

Playing with an orchestra is my favourite way of making music. Being surrounded by musicians who are all working together to bring a piece of music to life is immensely satisfying. As a flautist, the orchestral repertoire also allows me to perform the music of great composers who did not write solo works for the flute, such as Beethoven, Brahms, Stravinsky, Tchaikovsky and Shostakovich.

My advice to aspiring young flautists is simple: say “yes” to every opportunity to perform. As a young musician growing up in Dunedin, playing in chamber groups, youth orchestras and many different concerts helped nurture my love of performing and sharing music with audiences.