Evaluation of Oboe Concerto by Vaughan Williams
The oboe is a challenging instrument, and composing for it poses many difficulties. To truly do the instrument justice, it must shine and blend all at once, and this piece certainly does the oboe justice. The limitations of the oboe are considered in the writing of the Concerto, but it still pushes some barriers. There are many difficult passages for an experienced player to master; some through endurance, others through a firm control of pitch. There are parts that are quite pleasing to the ear, while others are a little much. Also, consideration must be given to the instrumentalist herself, Celia Nicklin. There are aspects of her performance which do the part justice, while others are lacking. First an analysis of what seems challenging about the piece. Right from the beginning Vaughan Williams seems determined to use the full capabilities of the oboe. From the quietest dip into the low notes, to the soaring upper register, it is a stunning intro. The arpeggiated passages are of particular concern. The jumps and skips over fift
This concept of an oboe concerto requires the oboe to do things it does not normally do. Play loudly, be the main attraction and perform virtuosic passages for extended lengths of time. Any of those challenges are required of the professional oboe player at different times, but to combine it into one large piece is a true challenge. To sustain a good pitch while holding the long notes in the minuet section would require enormous breath control. The ending of the second movement is haunting. The high, sustained note that is piano, but still sounds over the orchestra is arguably the most technically demanding feature of the piece. Although the third movement combines all the skills in a seven minute thrill ride. This movement is truly virtuosic, to go from rapid trills and runs, to a slow, quiet haunting melody and back again is incredible. This performer is able to transition between the moods well, although some of the slower notes tremble as her embouchure gets a little tired. To be able to play the explosions of sound at a demanding quiet level and keep the pitch constant is demandin
Some common words found in the essay are:
Vaughan Williams, Celia Nicklin, technically demanding, vaughan williams, demanding feature piece, demanding feature, technically demanding feature, oboe concerto, control pitch, breath control, feature piece, jumps skips, pleasing ear,
Approximate Word count = 742
Approximate Pages = 3 (250 words per page double spaced)
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