For Piano Reduction -> Reorder: E523A
Programme Notes:
The Concerto for Oboe and Strings was written over a six-week period between December 1995 and January 1996. It is dedicated to Paul Arden-Taylor, who gave the first performance in July 1996 with the Adderbury Ensemble conducted by the composer.
It was written as a companion piece to the 'Recorder Concerto', with the idea of giving the soloist the opportunity to shine on two different instruments. It is both light-hearted and lyrical, with only an occasional cloud passing over the musical landscape. The slow movement is an evocation of a peaceful summer day in unspoilt English countryside. In fact, the whole concerto is meant as a tonic and a rest from the stresses of present-day life.