2023
For tenor horn, piano, and optional off-stage tenor horn
Oolong (Mar 2021–Mar 2023) was a gluttonous, quick-footed, well-travelled Syrian hamster with oolong-milk-tea-coloured fur and an oversized-peanut-shaped physique. He was my only friend and roommate during the pandemic, and has been to three cities around England and Scotland. He passed away due to complications from an eye injury.
He never bothered to chew through a peanut shell, despite having loved peanuts more than anything throughout his life.
His last peanut will forever lie unopened, waiting to be savoured, like his remaining months that could have been lived.
Instrumentation
Tenor horn in E♭
Piano
(Optional) off-stage tenor horn in E♭
Work history
Commissioned for Jackie Choi’s graduation recital
Composed April 2023
Manchester
Premiered 26 May 2023, at Jackie Choi’s graduation recital, 26 May 2023, at the RNCM.
Jackie Choi, tenor horn
Ruth Webb, piano
Emma Conway, tenor horn