WOC comprised 15 players, across the range of clarinets, so the audience got a chance to experience the different voices and versatility of these instruments. Where else in Oxfordshire can we get the opportunity to learn about both the expressivity and the challenges involved in melding this colourful audio palette let alone holding these forces together in a cohesive shape? In the Percival the bass clarinets coped well with the syncopated line with lovely flourishes. In the Ostijn, Wendy really communicated what she expects, encouraging space between phrases that added to the overall expressiveness of this romance. Bizet’s Suite, Jeux d’enfants concluded the set.

(Alison Street)

WOC’s Programme:

Lindo – Percival

Elegie – Ostijn

Jeux d’Enfants – Bizet arr. Van de Wal/Marks

Five Feet Two, Eyes of Blue – Henderson/Marks