Sonata for Oboe and Piano - Peter Hope

Peter Hope's Sonata for Oboe and Piano was commissioned by the Ida Carroll Trust in memory of Lady Barbirolli, and was first performed by Richard Simpson (oboe) and Janet Simpson (piano) in the Barbirolli Room at the Bridgewater Hall, Manchester, on 6th June 2009, in a recital to celebrate her life and work. An additional version for solo oboe with string orchestra, harp and percussion is available.

"The Sonata opens with a long, almost melancholic movement signed ‘moderato.’ It is one of deepest pieces that I have heard from Hope’s pen. The mood changes with a dynamic scherzo presenting a satisfyingly contrasting trio. But even here, the mood is sad and reflective. Soon, the piece changes from that of remembrance to celebration in the final jazzy ‘eight in the bar’ number that Hope declares nods to his ‘semi-pro band playing’ during the 1940s. It is a very subtle bit of pastiche. Lady Barbirolli would have been delighted with this impressive tribute to her art both as a composition and as performed here by Richard and Janet Simpson. It is a sonata that ought to be in every oboist’s repertoire."