Works

The Double Reed (vol. 16, no. 1, 1993, used by permission)

“This work was written for Louisiana State University professors Mark Ostoich, oboe, and William Ludwig, bassoon, and was premiered by them at the I.D.R.S. conference in Manchester, England in August, 1989. According to the composer, ‘The principal rhythmic unit used in the piece is the eighth-note (quaver).’

It is a very challenging work for both instruments, probably a Grade V, in one movement.

There are three main sections: fast at the beginning and end and a meno mosso in the middle. While it doesn’t require any unusual musical technique, the traditional ones call for definitely advanced technical facility. The bassoon part ascends only to high d2, but requires solid technique in both the highest and lowest registers. The ensemble work between the two instruments could also be tricky.

The work is written in a non-tonal, but highly rhythmic and exciting style that would be very pleasing to ‘work out’ with one’s fellow performer. As a skillful work written well for both instruments, it deserves to reach a larger double reed audience.” —Ronald Klimko