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Dodgson's later work is long-breathed and convincingly explores material, ending in a poignant and moving epilogue. The earlier work is strikingly avuncular and athletic, with an expressive near-ten-minute hymnal slow movement that includes repeated syncopations. This, and the nonchalant, almost whimsical end of the work makes it a most listenable piece. Dodgson’s control of structural integrity in the Partita for solo cello is powerful and impressive.

The vocal parts are on the atonal scale but accomplished brilliantly by Robyn Allegra Parton. The oboe and piano accompaniments, more atmospheric than atonal in their impact, add a marvellous patina of colour to the pictures painted by the words. The effect in voice and instruments is magical. The Sonata for Oboe and Piano brings invigorating freshness. With fine performances by James Turnbull and Libby Burgess.

It was a joy to get to know Stephen's piece Idyll, during the recent Chamber Players week. The music was delicate, with a continuous gentle pulse like a heartbeat throughout... The solo violin line soared above, with some gorgeous dissonances in the inner parts... The piece was beautiful, and just perfect for the pupils on the course.

These pieces are recorded for the first time, surprisingly, for they are notably rewarding. It’s a handsome collection, very well captured, vivid and immediate, tonally faithful. Very well-played as the group Karolos, Harriet Mackenzie, Sarah-Jane Bradley and Graham Walker also shine individually.

Dodgson's chamber music is often astringent but always interesting. He echoed the baroque in his use of ornamentation, variation and intricate displays of virtuosity... expressively played here by Harriet Mackenzie... its exuberance brilliantly handled by Graham Walker. Sarah-Jane Bradley also impresses... – a virtuosic recital.

We’re delighted to announce the release of a new recording of Stephen Dodgson String Trios nos. 1 and 2 alongside his Violin Sonatina, Caprice after Puck and Cello Partita performed by the eminent UK ensemble Karolos.

In both sonatas, Dodgson’s lyrical genius is fully audible and his knack for vividly scored fast writing is much in evidence in the various scherzinos and toccatas with which each abound... The suite for oboe and harp Countdown is a beautifully euphonious work...

James Turnbull has a wonderfully full tone and lively sense of rhythm. He audibly relishes Dodgson’s music and is sensitive to its often challenging demands. Excellent sound throughout.

In April 2018, London-based Barts Chamber Choir premiered Lines from Hal Summers under the direction of Julian Perkins. The Stephen Dodgson Charitable Trust’s Leonora Dawson-Bowling caught up with soprano Evelina Hepp and asked her more about her experience of singing in the choir and of learning and performing Stephen Dodgson’s pieces.

These works show Dodgson's acute ability to highlight the best aspects of whatever instruments he chose to write for... There is an elegance so appealing about the Sonata for Oboe and Piano that it has you wanting to hear it again immediately... Showing that the oboe is a versatile instrument that can be teamed with most others, Dodgson’s gorgeous Countdown is a suite for oboe and harp—and what perfect partners they make... His Suite in C minor... Bucolic, bluesy, reflective, dreamy and dancing natures are all evident in this infectious fourteen-minute work...

Hats off to all four musicians: James Turnbull for his quite luminescent playing, Libby Burgess for her faithful and sympathetic pianism, Eleanor Turner for a meltingly gorgeous harp, and Robyn Allegra Parton for a superb rendition of the Three Winter Songs.