The flageolet was a popular instrument in nineteenth-century England, yet it has attracted little attention from either scholars or performers. This thesis presents an account of the flageolet, its music and the context in which it was played in England between 1800 and 1900. The organology of the English flageolet is explored through a study of treatises and a representative sample of 100 instruments. Particular emphasis is placed on the developments wrought by William Bainbridge and a new classification of the English single flageolet is proposed. The double, triple and flute-flageolets are examined, and it is observed that the tenor double flageolet is a transposing instrument, a matter not previously highlighted in the literature. Bainbridge’s double flageolet is contrasted with the Delecta Harmonia of Scott and Purkis. The organology of the French flageolet is studied through treatises and a representative sample of 25 instruments. 65 pieces of music composed for the flageolet are examined. In general, it becomes apparent that the repertoire for the English flageolet dates from the earlier years of the century and is less complex than that for the French flageolet. The specific virtuoso repertoire for the French flageolet dates mainly from the final quarter of the century. Observations are presented concerning the playing of the instrument by women, matters relating to social class and the venues wherein the flageolet was played. The use of the instrument in dance bands, music halls and by itinerant musicians is noted. The English flageolet was the preferred instrument of amateurs, whilst professionals performed on the French flageolet. The position of the flageolet within the context of nineteenth-century duct flutes is discussed and observations made as to why the flageolet has not been revived. Finally, suggestions are given for further research into ‘The Flageolet in England, 1800–1900’.
| Identifer | oai:union.ndltd.org:bl.uk/oai:ethos.bl.uk:587064 |
| Date | January 2013 |
| Creators | MacMillan, Douglas Middleton |
| Publisher | Royal College of Music |
| Source Sets | Ethos UK |
| Detected Language | English |
| Type | Electronic Thesis or Dissertation |
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