Martin Bussey has frequently extrapolated short works for a solo instrument from his more elaborate stage and concert works. This study for unaccompanied solo oboe explores themes from his chamber opera,
Mary’s Hand, about Mary Tudor. In the opera, the Jack of Hearts represents the baby that Mary Tudor longs for, believes she has conceived, but about which she is to be bitterly disappointed.
Although technically straightforward, this study has emotional depth and calls for intensity of line and commitment within a flexible approach to tempo.
Oboist Clare Hoskins, for whom the piece was written, performs it here: