In 2011, James’ debut recital disc was released by Quartz Music. This recording features a number of world premiere recordings of music by Michael Berkeley, John Woolrich, Tansy Davies, Colin Matthews, James MacMillan and Sir Peter Maxwell Davies performed by James, Huw Watkins (piano) and Claire Jones (harp).
Since the start of the twentieth century, oboists have been fortunate to receive some very special and powerful works from a wide variety of composers. As we progress further into the twenty-first century, it is important to show that the repertoire is continuing to thrive and be developed by many gifted composers who carry on extending the expressive boundaries of the instrument.
The repertoire on this disc has been chosen in a deliberate attempt to assemble works from the past 30 years by British composers that demonstrate the great contrasts possible with the modern oboe. There are pieces that emphasize stillness and meditation while others focus on the raw emotions of anger and grief.
It is available to purchase directly from the shop page on this website as well asfrom numerous outlets such as iTunes, Amazon, or from Quartz directly. Click on a link below to be taken directly to the relevant page. Short samples of each track are also available by clicking on the track name below.