Simon Holt is one of Britain's leading composers, standing out among hi peers with his bold and imaginative compositions. This piece, for Flute or Alto Flute, is inspired by a sculpture of the same name by ConstantinBrancusi,dating from 1915. Maiastra (or Pasarea Maiastra) is a magic golden bird from Rumanian folklore noted for its marvellous song which had miraculous powers.