Album Review: An American Affair, Lisa Friend, flute & Rohan De Silva, piano
(Chandos Records)
British flutist Lisa Friend and pianist Rohan De Silva join forces on An American Affair, an album that shines a spotlight on the richness and variety of American music for flute and piano. From beloved classics to fresh arrangements and premiere recordings, the program is a journey across America’s musical landscape, beautifully curated and sensitively performed.
The album opens with Stephen Foster’s timeless melody, arranged by Jascha Heifetz and here given new life by Friend’s warm, lyrical tone. Her phrasing feels natural and nostalgic, capturing the tenderness of a 19th-century parlor song while weaving it seamlessly into the classical recital hall tradition. A centerpiece of the album, Griffes’ Poem unfolds as a dreamscape of shifting moods. Friend’s flute is luminous and searching, while De Silva provides an atmospheric, almost orchestral piano foundation. Their performance highlights the piece’s Impressionist colors and restless spirit, keeping the listener captivated throughout its wide expressive range. The two transcriptions of Amy Beach are miniature gems. The Berceuse is tender and intimate, with Friend’s flute singing sweetly over De Silva’s delicate accompaniment. In contrast, Invocation is noble and expansive, giving the duo space to explore Beach’s Romantic lyricism with great sincerity. Written in memory of flutist William Kincaid, Copland’s Duo is a cornerstone of the flute repertoire.
Friend and De Silva give a commanding interpretation, embracing the open, American sound-world that Copland is known for.
The flowing first movement is both expansive and supple; the second, poetic and mournful; the third, a lively dance infused with rhythmic buoyancy. This performance balances Copland’s clarity with genuine warmth.
Originally for organ, Adoration by Florence Price is heard here in Stuart Ross Carlson’s sensitive arrangement for flute and piano. Friend’s flute soars with an almost vocal quality, while De Silva lends a devotional calm to the accompaniment. The result is both haunting and deeply moving, making this premiere a highlight of the album. Eldin Burton’s Sonatina, a beloved work in the flute repertoire, is performed here with charm and refinement. Friend captures the Allegretto’s elegance with grace, while the Andantino sognando is dreamy and lyrical. The final movement sparkles with brilliance, delivered with playful agility and polished ensemble work with De Silva. Arranged by Leigh Phillips, this medley brings Bernstein’s Broadway genius to the recital stage. Friend and De Silva balance theatrical flair with classical refinement, weaving familiar Bernstein melodies into a fresh, flowing suite. It’s both a tribute and a transformation—lively, heartfelt, and thoroughly enjoyable.
Closing the album is Ungar’s modern classic, Ashokan Farewell. Known for its role in Ken Burns’ The Civil War documentary, the piece is rendered here with mystery and longing. Friend’s flute captures the plaintive, folk-like quality of the melody, supported by De Silva’s understated, flowing piano. It’s a poignant end to a beautifully crafted program.
An American Affair is a triumph of programming and artistry. By blending iconic works with first recordings and sensitive new arrangements, Lisa Friend and Rohan De Silva offer listeners both familiarity and discovery. Friend’s tone is radiant, expressive, and versatile—equally at home in Copland’s wide landscapes, Griffes’ mystical colors, and the intimacy of Beach and Price. De Silva proves an ideal partner, responsive and imaginative at every turn.
This album is not just a recital—it’s a love letter to American music, interpreted with elegance and heart. A must-hear for flute lovers and admirers of American music.