BOOKING

PROGRAM OFFERINGS

Most of the Ensemble's programs are a mix of material from our recent and upcoming projects listed below. Education and public service are at the core of the group's values, and they regularly incorporate workshops, school programs, and community outreach into their tours.

WITH THE CHRIS NORMAN ENSEMBLE:

THE CALEDONIAN FLUTE
Scottish music from the 16-19th c.

The CNE’s critically acclaimed, groundbreaking program, bringing to life music of 16th-19th c. Scotland. Guest artists David McGuinness (harpsichord, harmonium, and melodica) and/or Ronn McFarlane (lute) regularly join the CNE quartet. “[The] playing was always of wonderful virtuosity and expressiveness, either hurtling through jigs, reels and two–steps, or sounding slow airs with passion and soulfulness…come of the finest and most original playing in the world.” Banffshire Journal (Scotland) 10/03

IN THE FIELDS IN FROST AND SNOW
A program for the Christmas season

A seasonal program of dances, airs, Noels, hymns, and songs from early sources with a special emphasis on the musical heritage of Maritime Canada: Acadian, Scottish, French, German, English and early American roots. A fine balance of the CNE’s signature blend of blazing musicianship with an eclectic contemporary approach that bridges traditional music with the renaissance and baroque. Guest artists may include Canadian soprano Suzy Leblanc and/or Scottish keyboardist David McGuinness. This program was broadcast nationally in Canada 12/03. More info about In the fields in frost and snow...

OLIVER’S TRAVELS
A multimedia journey with Oliver Goldsmith

Flute player, writer, dramatist, poet, and legendary traveler Oliver Goldsmith was born in Roscommon, Ireland in 1728. Our program celebrates his journeys, writings and musical life with traditional and art music of 18th century Ireland, Scotland, England, Holland, France, Switzerland and Italy as well as readings from some of his most outstanding works. Guest artist Rod Cameron joins the CNE for readings and songs as well as Scottish keyboardist David McGuinness. Goldsmith’s earthy wit and mission to reveal the absurdities of 18th century ‘genteel” society make for a perfect match with the CNE’s wide ranging creative approach to the music of the era.

WIND & WIRE
A baroque duo recital

Chris Norman presents a recital of mostly Scottish baroque music with harpsichord. Composers include Scotsmen Oswald, McGibbon, and Reid, as well as the Italians who were inspired by Scotland’s music; Barsanti, Veracini, and Muffat. Some gems from the standard repertoire of Boismortier and Bach may be included as well as a few 18thc. Dance tunes on flute and pipes. Harpsichordists are either Byron Schenkmann or David McGuinness. Recently performed at Seattle’s Benaroya Hall on 1/17/03.

PROGRAM OFFERINGS

WITH ORCHESTRA:

Soloist with a full orchestra, string orchestra, or baroque orchestra, or pops. Chris and the Ensemble offer the following repertoire of works inspired by the traditional folk idiom :

Out of Orkney - Chris Norman, 1999; flute + flute + strings; 17 min.
Old Scots Dances - arr. Chris Norman, 2003, flute, pipes & orchestra - 15 min.
Cape Breton Concerto - Brian Packham, 1995; 3 movements; flute + strings; 15min
In Ireland - Sir Hamilton Harty, 1926; flute + orchestra or flute + strings; 10 min.
Gaelic Love Songs of the Sea - arr. Edward McGuire, 1996; flute + strings; 17 min.
Also available: other Celtic baroque works by Oswald, Carolan, McGibbon etc. with baroque orchestra
Flower of Port Williams - Chris Norman, 1998; flute + strings; 5 min.
Three French Canadian Reels- arr. Chris Norman, 2000; flute + strings; 5 min.
Acadian Dances - arr. Norman/Blachly, 2004, CNE + orchestra - 12 min
Also available: other standard rep. available upon request (Mozart, Bach, Griffes, etc.)