This CD features Ludwig van Beethoven’s three Sonatas for violin and piano, Op.30 in Louis-François-Philippe Drouet’s original adaptations for flute and piano. Drouet, a renowned flautist and composer, was active in the first half of the 19th century.

Drouet was the solo flautist in the Paris court orchestra for many years. After several trips to England, he was appointed Kapellmeister of the Duke of Saxe-Coburg and Gotha’s court orchestra in Coburg. Drouet was a close friend of Felix Mendelssohn, who held him in great esteem. He was often called “the Paganini of the flute”, a nickname which was then commonly given to all instrumentalists endowed with uncommon virtuosity.

Drouet composed prolifically for his instrument: his catalogue lists ten flute concertos, variations, studies, fantasias on operatic arias and chamber works. Additionally, he adapted Beethoven’s Sonatas Op.12 and Op.30 for flute and piano.

In Drouet’s arrangements, the flute is placed on equal terms with the piano, engaging in a compelling and incisive dialogue.

Flautist Fabio De Rosa and pianist Emanuele Delucchi are renowned soloists who have been collaborating as a duo since 2013.