The Overture to Ruslan and Ludmilla by Mikhail Glinka, arranged for Flute Choir by Matt Johnston. The overture to Ruslan and Ludmilla by Mikhail Glinka is one of the most energetic and popular pieces in the classical repertoire. It serves as the introduction to Glinka’s opera of the same name, which premiered in 1842. The opera is based on a poem by the Russian poet Alexander Pushkin, and it tells a fantastical tale of love, magic, and heroism. The overture is known for its sparkling and fast-paced nature. It opens with a flurry of rapid scales in the strings, setting an exhilarating tone that immediately grabs the listener's attention. The second theme in the woodwinds is lyrical and contrasts beautifully with the frenetic energy of the first.

Instrumentation:

• Piccolo
• 6 Flutes
• Alto Flute
• Bass Flute
• Contrabass Flute/Contralto Flute (in G)
• Timpani (optional)