Recitativo e Terzetto (for Oboe, Clarinet, and Bassoon) (1980)
This tribute to the spirit of Giuseppe Verdi is a little operatic scene without words, though there is an unstated scenario. The climactic dramatic moment occurs after the oboe’s aria, when the clarinet, taking advantage of the oboe’s temporary absence, seduces the bassoon.
The music was commissioned by the Redlands University Contemporary Music Ensemble and its director, the composer and poet Barney Childs; it was subsequently dedicated to Barney’s memory. It was awarded first prize in the 2000 New England Reed Trio Competition.
This performance, recorded at Stony Brook University, is by Jonathan South, oboe; Cheryl Hill, clarinet, and Ann Obenour, bassoon.
