Nadia Labrie / Mathieu Gaudet FLÛTE PASSION: SCHUBERT

I have been thinking about this recording project for years. I have wanted to record Schubert’s most beautiful works ever since I played Introduction and Variations during my final exams at the Conservatoire over 20 years ago. In the intervening years, I read through the Arpeggione Sonata – a work that requires great breath control on flute – without ever having the opportunity to perform it. It remained a dream until the urge to expose listeners to this wonderful flute repertoire became simply too strong to resist. First of all, I needed a talented and virtuosic pianist, Introduction and Variations being extremely challenging for both instrumentalists. I immediately thought of Mathieu Gaudet, who is both passionate about Schubert and an old friend with whom I studied at Rimouski Conservatory. I discovered the Die Schöne Müllerin cycle, when it was my soundtrack during long nights studying natural sciences. I have always found this music inspiring, so I wanted to perform a flute and piano version of some of my favourites. Schubert’s music is so uplifting, so inspiring, so passionate – it taps into the soul, the voice, and the breath of life. I hope it will transport you. Enjoy!  (Nadia Labrie)