Vaughan Williams & MacMillan: Oboe Concertos / Britten: A Time There Was Suite

This captivating album presents a stunning collection of works for oboe and orchestra, featuring the virtuoso Nicholas Daniel alongside the Britten Sinfonia, conducted by the renowned composer James MacMillan. The centerpiece of this recording is the world premiere of MacMillan's own Oboe Concerto, a work dedicated to Daniel and showcasing the composer's distinctive voice and the soloist's exceptional talent.

The album also includes Ralph Vaughan Williams' Oboe Concerto in A Minor, a beloved piece from the early 20th century that highlights the instrument's lyrical and expressive qualities. Completing the program is Benjamin Britten's Suite on English Folk Tunes, "A Time There Was," Op. 90, a delightful and inventive exploration of traditional English melodies.

The album opens with MacMillan's "One," a brief but evocative piece for chamber orchestra that sets the tone for the contemporary works to follow. The performances throughout are impeccable, with Daniel's oboe playing soaring and expressive, and the Britten Sinfonia providing sensitive and nuanced support under MacMillan's expert direction. The album was released in April 2015 by Harmonia Mundi and is a testament to the enduring appeal of these works and the exceptional artistry of all involved.

Sir James MacMillan, a pre-eminent figure in contemporary classical music, is renowned for his profound impact as both a composer and conductor. Born in Kilwinning, Ayrshire, in 1959, MacMillan's musical journey began with a simple plastic recorder in primary school, sparking a lifelong passion for composition. His rich catalogue of orchestral and choral works is performed by leading orchestras worldwide, making him one of today's most performed and successful composers. MacMillan's music is deeply influenced by his Scottish heritage and his Catholic faith, creating a unique and emotionally resonant musical language. He studied at the University of Edinburgh and Durham University, and his compositions have been celebrated for their innovation and depth. MacMillan's contributions to music have been recognized with numerous awards, including a knighthood, and he continues to inspire audiences and fellow musicians alike with his compelling and spiritually resonant compositions.