Rachel Tolmie

Wollongong: Wirripang 2006

ISBN 9781876829124 100pp with CD

Reviewed by Eve Newsome

Rachel Tolmie’s An Introduction to the Cor Anglais and Oboe contains much valuable information for the beginner, professional and teacher alike. The first four chapters are dedicated to the beginner oboist, teachers, or those wishing to revise basic principles such as embouchure formation, posture, breathing and healthy approaches to playing. To assist with the very first lesson, a compendium of ideas is presented. This is followed by practical advice concerning practice techniques and approaches to joining and performing in ensembles. Much of this contains concise and detailed information and includes a recommended ‘playing in’ and oiling process for new instruments. Essential oboe reed making technique is covered in a well-presented connection between photos and information. A short chapter on contemporary techniques then directs readers to more extensive sources of reference if required.

Whilst the entire book shows a well thought-out and helpful approach for players and teachers, the ‘Repertoire for the Cor Anglais’ (Chapter Nine) is of particular interest to the cor anglais specialist, being both extensive and detailed. It includes solo, accompanied and chamber music works for the instrument with full descriptions of each work. This repertoire list is extended in Chapter Ten to include Australian works for both oboe and cor anglais with piano, a must for the Australian player. The last three chapters include two quick reference guides of Chapters Nine and Ten and a list of Italian musical terms.

Tolmie has recorded cor anglais works with piano for the accompanying CD which demonstrates the beauty of the repertoire with fine playing. The range of repertoire will appeal to many tastes and levels and demonstrates Tolmie’s understanding of the needs of the broader musical community.

This publication is very easy to read and together with the CD provides a much needed guide to many aspects of playing. It is an essential read for cor anglais players and teachers and will be a support for both teaching and performing. Tolmie has done a great service to the double reed community in providing such a resource and is to be congratulated for the research, advice and personable writing style.