Capriccio: Flute & Piano Parts

Capriccio avoids the predictable lyrical writing that dominates student flute repertoire at this level. Instead, Ulehla crafts a piece that stays energetic and unpredictable, with the cadenza giving soloists a genuine moment to shine rather than simply display technique. The modern piano part does real musical work, not mere accompaniment.

Capriccio captures the joy and spontaneity its title suggests, with moments of whimsical brilliance punctuated by introspection. The modern harmonic palette gives the piece an immediate, almost cinematic quality that feels fresher than much student repertoire.

Intermediate to early-advanced flute students ready to explore contemporary writing without sacrificing musicality. Solo competition and festival performers will find a piece that stands out in a crowded field of Romantic-era excerpts and Baroque transcriptions.

• Shape the contrasting sections as distinct characters. Mark the tempo and character shifts clearly in your score so transitions feel intentional, not abrupt.
• Work the cadenza passage early and separately from the surrounding music. Once secure, practice it in context to find the right balance between freedom and structural coherence.
• Coordinate closely with your pianist on the harmonic language. Contemporary sonorities can feel thin if either player rushes; lean into the rests and spacing Ulehla writes.
• Bring rhythmic clarity to the brilliant sections. The happy energy depends on precise articulation and consistent pulse, especially when the accompaniment uses sparse textures.

Program this as a festival or competition entry where contemporary voices are underrepresented. It also pairs well in a recital or studio class when you want to demonstrate how modern composers can engage young performers without compromise.

• Managing contrasting musical sections and character shifts
• Performing a substantial cadenza with stylistic control
• Reading and responding to contemporary harmonic language
• Balancing solo voice against non-traditional accompaniment textures
• Maintaining steady pulse and precision through rhythmically active passages