Beryl Rubinstein is not yet a widely recognized name, but he was an exceptional musician—pianist, composer, and humanitarian of considerable distinction. He toured internationally with the great violinist, Eugène Ysaÿe and maintained a close friendship with George Gershwin—whose influence can be heard in Rubinstein’s Sonata for Flute and Piano, including a subtle quotation. Written and premiered in Cleveland in 1940, it comes during a period when relatively little repertoire was being composed for the flute.
Until recently, this remarkable sonata was only known by flutists who had a connection to Cleveland, and existed only in manuscript form, on the Music Library shelves at the Cleveland Institute of Music. Many local flutists have xerox copies of the first version typeset years ago by Wally Mahall. It has now been published by Ludwig Masters/Alfred Publications,
making it widely accessible to performers and educators for the first time.
https://www.alfred.com/products/sonata-for-flute-and-piano-36-50410011?variant=44598442131592
Given its musical quality, accessibility, and historical significance, it has strong potential to become a valuable addition to the standard flute repertoire. Distinguished Cleveland flutists Maurice Sharp, Jeffrey Khaner, John Rautenberg and Thomas Nyfenger have performed and recorded the work, further underscoring its merit as a great addition to the repertoire and terrific recital piece.
Now here’s the exciting part! While doing research for the video on BR to be included in the published printed music, going through archival boxes that had been in the basement of CIM for 70 years, (photos, PR materials, programs, letters, lectures, publications, etc) I came across some manuscript paper with sketches on the front, I opened it up, and lo and behold… the sonata’s first movement, orchestrated—effectively revealing a new concerto! (I felt like Indiana Jones:)
This work speaks to a time where so much has been lost…(including inspiration and creativity.) Given the scarcity of flute concert repertoire during WWII, this is an especially exciting finding. We will premiere the work in the Spring of 2027 with the Cleveland Chamber Symphony, Steven Smith conductor, Dan DeLange, orchestrator. The performance will bring a remarkable and long-forgotten work to modern audiences, while shedding new light on one of Cleveland's most influential musical figures.
If you would like to contribute towards the completion of the orchestration, see the links below, I’m happy to announce that we are 1/3 of the way towards our goal Thank you for your consideration in bringing this “new” work to life! click here: Beryl Rubinstein Orchestration Project