While its purpose has been to showcase the unique talents in the double reed world, it was also designed to foster greater fellowship and generate greater appreciation and awareness of the oboe. This year's festival, Oct. 17-19, is a celebration of alumni performers, publishers and teachers. One work has been commissioned by jazz composer Robert Sibbing to celebrate the family tree of five generations of oboists created here. The event involves teachers from Juilliard and the New England Conservatory and current rising student stars. New UI music faculty, including Richard Lottridge, Tadeu Coelho, Stephen Swanson, and William LaRue Jones, will be introduced.
All events are free and open to all.
Newly published or newly composed works by alumni or guest artists will be premiered at each concert. Several newly edited and published works by UI alumni will be presented by University students.