for Solo Flute
The 'Sonata' for Solo Flute actually started its life as a 'Sonatina' for flute and was composed in 1998, and soon premiered by Roberto Casado in Estella, Navarre (Spain) in the Festival 'Cultur', organized by the regional government of Navarre. However, after a revision in 2008, the slow parts have been changed (movements I & III, now given greater lyricism) to reach its present-day form - a Sonata for concert artists and equally for medium and higher level flute students.
The work is almost a continual piece although one can distinguish four independent movements:
I Lento (Introduction)
II Scherzo
III Lento (Reprise)
IV Gigue
These movements are somewhat joined and thematically related by the frequent use of transformations of motives. It can be appreciated that the work is indeed a 'Sonata' for its extension and technical difficulty. In spite of this, it was never the intention of the composer to write a virtuoso work although there are some difficult moments. At all times a clean articulation, ample contrasts of dynamics and expressive communication are all called for - and for these reasons the dedication of the work is offered to Roberto Casado - with whom the composer found these qualities in abundance! - However, when Johnstone composed the work he was careful that the work should be suitable not only for mature artists but also for promising youngsters in medium level or higher level Conservatoire classes — that is, a piece for any recital or concert, and accessible and enjoyable to the general public.