“Ten Little Birthday Greetings for Robin” were composed as a present for Robin Holloway’s 70th birthday. Each piece, no more than two pages long, is an exploration of a single idea or process. Rob has a particular interest in music in only two parts: a legacy perhaps of his many years’ teaching composition at King’s College, London, where such “limitations” on invention have shown (eg Bach!) to actually free up a composer of any age. Apart from obvious examples for this medium, such as the wonderful Poulenc Sonata (a clear and happily acknowledged influence!) there seem to be surprisingly few works written for this delectable combination, so this collection, into which players may dip at will, is a substantial addition to the repertoire.

“Ten Little Birthday Greetings” is also available in printed edition from June Emerson Wind Music.