Composer: Michael Hurd, Kenneth Leighton, William Blezard, John Gardner, Philip Lane
Works: Concerto da Camera, Oboe Concerto (1953), Two Celtic Pieces, Oboe Concerto (1990), Three Spanish Dances (1981)
Performers: Jill Crowther (oboe), English Northern Philharmonia/Alan Cuckston
Recording: Leeds 2000
Label: ASV WHITELINE CD WHL 2130
The disc featuring works for oboe by Michael Hurd, Kenneth Leighton, William Blezard, John Gardner, and Philip Lane presents a charming survey of British concerted music for this expressive woodwind instrument. Each of these composers imbues their respective concertos and pieces with a distinct personal voice while remaining rooted in the rich tradition of English music. The program unfolds from Hurd’s lyrical “Concerto da Camera” to the rhythmic vitality of Lane’s “Three Spanish Dances,” offering both depth and delightful contrasts.
Jill Crowther’s performance is a testament to her mastery of the oboe, showcasing both technical skill and interpretative insight. Hurd’s “Concerto da Camera” serves as an ideal curtain-raiser, its three movements succinctly encapsulating a lyrical simplicity that beautifully highlights Crowther’s warm tone. The opening movement, with its flowing melodic lines, invites the listener into a world of pastoral serenity, while the playful character of the final movement reveals a buoyant spirit. Crowther navigates the technical demands with apparent ease, her articulation crisp and her phrasing sensitive to Hurd’s intentions.
Kenneth Leighton’s Oboe Concerto, completed in 1953 but only premiered nearly five decades later, offers a more substantial emotional landscape. The second movement, marked by its austere opening, gradually builds to a poignant climax, capturing the listener’s attention with its haunting harmonies. Crowther’s interpretation is particularly noteworthy here; she effectively balances the introspective qualities of the movement with a burgeoning intensity that culminates in a powerful, expressive outpouring. The finale, infused with dance-like rhythms, showcases her agility and deftness, reminiscent of the English pastoral tradition while remaining distinctly contemporary.
John Gardner’s Oboe Concerto, written for Nicholas Daniel, brings a neo-classical flair that contrasts with Leighton’s more serious demeanor. Crowther’s handling of the central Adagio is especially commendable, where her lyrical phrasing and beautifully sustained lines resonate with emotion, creating a moment of reflective beauty. The finale, though somewhat abrupt in its conclusion, is delivered with a lightness that underscores Gardner’s playful sensibility, allowing Crowther’s technical prowess to shine as she deftly navigates the rapid passages.
William Blezard’s “Two Celtic Pieces” and Philip Lane’s “Three Spanish Dances” serve as effective lighter interludes. The former, originally composed for flute, evokes a vivid sense of Scottish and Irish folk traditions, while Lane’s dances, although rhythmically rooted in Spanish influences, maintain an unmistakable English accent. These pieces provide a refreshing contrast within the program, showcasing Crowther’s versatility and ability to adapt her sound to suit varied stylistic demands.
The engineering of the recording is praiseworthy, presenting a clear and natural balance between the soloist and the orchestra. The English Northern Philharmonia, under the baton of Alan Cuckston, provides a supportive yet dynamic backdrop, ensuring that Crowther’s oboe remains at the forefront without overpowering the orchestral textures.
This collection stands as a significant addition to the recorded repertoire for oboe, illuminating lesser-known works that deserve wider recognition. The combination of Crowther’s virtuosic performance and the thoughtful programming of these diverse pieces creates a compelling listening experience that not only entertains but also enriches our understanding of contemporary British music for the oboe. The disc is an essential acquisition for both aficionados and newcomers looking to explore the nuances of English woodwind literature.
