L'oiseau de bois (Das Waldvöglein) op. 21

„L’oiseau des bois“ by Franz Doppler, famous flute virtuoso of the 19th century (1821-1883), follows the series of instrumental works describing nature with musical means popular in romantic music where they can be found in any kind and number.

In his op. 21, he succeedsin using the mellow "forrest sound" of four horns as a basis for virtuoso bird song, and even composes a kind of counterpoint, as the calmness of the accompaniment emphasizes the effect produced by the extremely playful flute. A special effect is achieved by placing the horns at a distance from the flutes.

This piece is rewarding for every flutist, and it can be widely used due to the option of having the horn parts taken over by either piano or harmonium.