Composer William Schade was also the principal flutist of the New York Symphony from 1890-1899. Little else is known about his life. The 24 Caprices follow the musical movement that was happening during their composition; a rise of Romanticism that bred luscious harmonies and an appeal to the emotional side of music. The caprices are not progressive in nature and include all major and minor keys. These could be considered by the advanced intermediate flutist.