Flute virtuoso and composer Jules Demersseman was an adherent of the Meyer system flute. The Meyer key system continued to be the instrument of choice for many flutists well into the 20th Century, however Demersseman was eventually dismissed from his position at the Paris Conservatory for not condoning the use of Boehm’s new key system. He died at age 33 from tuberculosis. Like his Sixieme Solo de Concert, Demersseman’s First Sonata in Eb, Op. 22, is a brilliant and tuneful virtuosic display from of the 19th Century repertoire, suitable for competition or performance, published in facsimile.
