Introducing 'Bach and Beyond' flute soloist, Luca Manghi

In that recording the concerto is played by Jean-Pierre Rampal and it's been one of my favourite pieces ever since, so it's very exciting that I finally get to play it.

Even though the piece was not originally written for the flute, it captures many of the flute's qualities so well, and of course it's a testament to the beautiful writing of J.S. Bach. The two outer movements are full of exciting and virtuosic passages, while the middle movement has the feeling of a nostalgic dance. To prepare for it I have listened to many versions of Bach's original works, his Cantata Geist und Seele wird verwirret, and the Oboe Concerto in D minor. But a few months ago, I began the process of adapting my ideas to the flute version.

The programme also includes Schubert's wonderful Symphony No. 3 and Gounod's Petite Symphonie, another favourite of mine. The flute writing in Gounod's work is exquisite, especially the beautiful lyrical melody in the Andante Cantabile.

The June concert will also be the first time that I work with Maestro Brent Stewart. I have heard many great things about his work and I'm very much looking forward to meeting him soon. And of course, it is always great to perform alongside my many friends in the DSO!