Bohemian Rhapsody by Freddie Mercury, arranged by Zoë Booth for four or more flutes/flute choir

As sung by Queen! 

The memorable and unique singer-songwriter Freddie Mercury spent his childhood living in India, but eventually moved to London where he attended school and college, graduating as an art student.  He joined his first serious band in 1969 but shortly after formed ‘Queen’ with Brian May, John Deacon and Roger Taylor, a ground-breaking quartet which influenced the world of rock music through its’ evolving styles over the next two and half decades; Queen’s distinctive musical sound encompassed many styles, from Freddie’s beloved opera to glam rock, and their live performances were renowned for their electrifying energy.

In this version for flute choir Queen’s great rock classic ‘Bohemian Rhapsody’ has been arranged faithful to the original hit.  It can be performed with a minimum of four players (the fourth player must either play the fourth flute part or alto, doubling flute four), but works best of all when performed by large flute choir including at least one each of piccolo, alto and bass flutes.  A tam-tam struck gently on the last note is a great addition to a concert performance.

5.5 mins approx

Elementary to advanced

PB012 

Contents

One score and the following separate parts:

Parts include:

Piccolo (optional)

Flute 1

Flute 2

Flute 3

Flute 4

Alto Flute (optional)

Bass Flute (optional)

Reviews

Review from Wendy, Flute Choir Director

"If you are looking for a clever, fun, crowd-pleasing piece for your intermediate - advanced flute choir, click "buy now" on Zoe Booth's arrangement of Bohemian Rhapsody. My thirty five member adult flute choir of all ages LOVES this piece and one member was so moved after our first rehearsal that she wrote this on her facebook feed:

"My flute choir is cooler than yours. I won't lie, I did start crying a bit while playing this as I thought of my dad. He would have really dug this arrangement. As I pulled out of the parking lot after rehearsal, this song started playing on the car radio. Just one of those cool coincidences that makes your day."

I can highly recommend this work for your next concert!"

Review from Mary, adult player

"Our flute choir of all adults enjoyed playing this piece, which made an interesting contrast to the other pieces in our concert, and it was well received by the audience. All the parts were covered, using the piccolo, C flutes, altos and basses. We have now added a contra bass to the line-up, doubling the bass part."

Review from Derek, Flute Teacher and Ensemble Conductor

"Both Quizas Quizas Quizas and Bohemian Rhapsody were performed last December (2017). My charge of flute players ages 12-65ish loved playing them.

It is clear Pipeblower arrangements are fashioned by a flute player. The flutes are always featured at their idiomatic best. They are a great addition to my teaching as my ensembles (of all abilities) enjoy playing and performing them. All the parts have a wide range of both musical and rhythmic interest. The easier parts also have ‘cool hooks’ which helps engage the players interest and helps them feel part of the bigger tonal picture."

Review from Ruth, adult flute choir member

"This arrangement stays true to the Queen song throughout, and gives the flautist the chance to enjoy their inner Rock God! It begins with close harmony, blending the flutes beautifully. Every part has the opportunity to play the melody, even flute three who has Brian May’s amazing guitar solo. I would recommend this arrangement for more advanced players, due to the key signature chances, pitch and rhythms; a larger flute choir (ten plus) would be particularly suitable, to give it fullness of sound."