The works on this CD offer an overview of Roxburgh’s writing for oboe spanning the period 1967 to 2007. Comparing these works one cannot help but be struck by the range and diversity that the music represents. Such diversity reflects Roxburgh’s substantial abilities as a composer, his knowledge and understanding of the nature of the oboe, together with knowledge of its repertoire and traditions. The works reveal a pioneering spirit working to develop the potential of the instrument. In addition to his compositional activities, Roxburgh was also a very fine oboist. Not surprisingly his abilities as a performer and his willingness to explore and engage with the most contemporary developments of the instrument have had a significant influence upon his writing.
A number of the works on the CD are closely connected to major figures in the oboe world Two were written specifically for birthdays of Léon Goossens: Aulodie for his 80th (in which Goossens gave the first performance) and Antares for his 90th (first performed by Nicholas Daniel). Elegy was written ‘in memory of Janet Craxton’ and Study 1 is dedicated to Lady Barbirolli, (a commission from the ‘Barbirolli International Oboe Festival and Competition, 2009’).
Since his time as a student at the Royal Academy of Music, Christopher Redgate has specialised in the performance of contemporary oboe music. He has been described as having ‘extraordinary exploratory technical brilliance’ (Music Web) and of being a 'tireless champion' of extended techniques (Double Reed Magazine). This specialisation has inspired many composers to write for him and as a result he has given premiere performances of a great number of works. His performing career has taken him all over the world, working as a soloist and in many ensembles. His performances frequently include the use of electronics and especially of the laptop computer and for many years now he has been including improvisation as a significant part of his recitals.
He has been active as a teacher both of oboe and in workshops for composers. He broadcasts regularly for BBC Radio Three and has several solo CDs available. Future releases include Ferneyhough’s Allegebrah and Coloratura with Ensemble Exposé. He has recently contributed three articles to an edition of Contemporary Music Review, is working on a book on the interpretation of contemporary oboe music and contributing a chapter in a new book on the music of Michael Finnissy.
Ensemble Exposé is a professional ensemble dedicated to the performance of new and experimental music. It was formed in 1984 by the composers Richard Barrett, Roger Redgate and Michael Finnissy and has since established a reputation for its commitment to presenting the most challenging of contemporary music. The ensemble has assembled an international membership of virtuoso musicians and a repertoire whose power and directness is matched by its lack of intellectual compromise. The group has given extensive concerts and broadcasts throughout Europe and has appeared at many of the major festivals of new music in France, Germany, Holland, Hungary, Italy, Sweden and the USA.
