This article was originally posted on the 16th October, 2016, but is regularly updated as new recordings emerge. Many thanks to several readers who have submitted new information. More is always welcomed!
Ruth Gipps (1921–1999) is a composer whose work, it is fair to say, is severely under-recorded, under-broadcast and not nearly well-known enough. I have written a bit about her remarkable character and her ardent and spirited music here and here. Since then I have been scouring the Internet for readily-available recordings of her music, regardless of sound quality. Beggars can’t be choosers! The result is the initial attempt at a discography below, which includes commercial and non-commercial recordings. If any readers know of any more, of have any corrections, please leave a comment!
For anybody who hasn’t come across her music before, I would personally recommend the good humour (and good recording quality) of the Horn Concerto, the lyricism of the third symphony (the second and third movements are especially accessible) and the piano concerto. The second movement of her fourth symphony is a moonlit grove of wonders. In her fifth symphony’s first movement, a particularly lovely melody is passed around the chocolatey winds. The energetic third movement of the same symphony gives a good impression of the spikiness and energy of her character: this, after all, was the person who once said, ‘I regard all so-called 12-tone music, so-called serial music, so-called electronic music and so-called avant-garde music as utter rubbish and indeed a deliberate conning of the public’…!
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Ruth Gipps (1921–1999) is a composer whose work, it is fair to say, is severely under-recorded, under-broadcast and not nearly well-known enough. I have written a bit about her remarkable character and her ardent and spirited music here and here. Since then I have been scouring the Internet for readily-available recordings of her music, regardless of sound quality. Beggars can’t be choosers! The result is the initial attempt at a discography below, which includes commercial and non-commercial recordings. If any readers know of any more, of have any corrections, please leave a comment!
For anybody who hasn’t come across her music before, I would personally recommend the good humour (and good recording quality) of the Horn Concerto, the lyricism of the third symphony (the second and third movements are especially accessible) and the piano concerto. The second movement of her fourth symphony is a moonlit grove of wonders. In her fifth symphony’s first movement, a particularly lovely melody is passed around the chocolatey winds. The energetic third movement of the same symphony gives a good impression of the spikiness and energy of her character: this, after all, was the person who once said, ‘I regard all so-called 12-tone music, so-called serial music, so-called electronic music and so-called avant-garde music as utter rubbish and indeed a deliberate conning of the public’…!
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The Fairy Shoemaker, 1929, for solo piano.
Première recording by Duncan Honeybourne first broadcast on BBC Radio 3’s programme ‘Composer of the Week’, 8 March 2021: <https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/m000sxzh> and released on disc in 2021 by Prima Facie records.
Op. 2: Kensington Gardens Suite for Oboe and Piano (1938)
Rendition by Stephanie Carlson (oboe) and Stephen Sulich (piano) during a Lecture Recital at Concordia College in Moorhead, Minnesota, 16th September, 2017: <https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bBvQYELiaqA&t=2060s>
Recorded commercially in 2023 for Chandos Records (CHAN 20290) by Juliana Koch (oboe), Julian Bliss (clarinet) and Michael McHale (piano).
Op. 3b: Sea-Shore Suite for Oboe and Piano (1939)
Rendition by Stephanie Carlson (oboe) and Stephen Sulich (piano) during a Lecture Recital at Concordia College in Moorhead, Minnesota, 16th September, 2017: <https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bBvQYELiaqA&t=1580s>
I. Gulls
II. Sea Anemone
III. Stormy Beach
Katherine Needleman’s renditions of oboe solo and piano accompaniment combined into one recording: <https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LR4EqUzWYBo> , and with accompanying images by Jeff Bieber <https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GA3eAvOromo>
Recorded commercially in 2023 for Chandos Records (CHAN 20290) byJuliana Koch (oboe), Julian Bliss (clarinet) and Michael McHale (piano).
Opus 3d: Honey-Coloured Cow for Bassoon and Piano (1938)
Performed during a concert given by the Association for the Promotion of English Composers, 9 June 2021. Performed by Lowri Richards (bassoon) and Sasha Valeri Millwood (piano). The recording can be heard here: <www.youtube.com/watch?v=jDB9uG7Cao0&t=1308> (21'45")
Op. 5: Sonata No.1 for Oboe and Piano in G minor (1939)
Performed by Catherine Pluygers (oboe) and Sasha Valeri Millwood (piano) during a concert organised by the Association for the Promotion of English Composers and broadcast on YouTube on 31st March, 2021 (<https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=guJ4NlgsicI&t=21s>), the music having been recorded at Craxton Studios (London) on the 22nd March.
I. Allegro moderato — Presto — Tempo I — Presto [0'21"]
II. Adagio — Poco agitato — Tempo I [5'35"]
III. Finale (Tempo di Bolero) [7'49"]
Op. 5b: The Kelpie of Corrievreckan for clarinet and piano.
The première recording by Peter Cigleris (clarinet) and Duncan Honeybourne (piano) was first broadcast on BBC Radio 3’s programme ‘Composer of the Week’, 8 March 2021 (<https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/m000sxzh>) and released commercially on the SOMM label in September 2021: <https://somm-recordings.com/recording/dedication-the-clarinet-chamber-music-of-ruth-gipps/>.
Op. 8: Knight in Armour (1942)
One recording on the Chandos label (CHAN 20078): the BBC National Orchestra of Wales conducted by Rumon Gamba.
Op. 9: Concerto for Clarinet and Orchestra (1940)
One recording released by Champs Hill Records (CHRCD160) in July 2020: Robert Plane (soloist) and the BBC Scottish Symphony Orchestra, conducted by Martyn Brabbins.
Op. 10: Trio for Oboe, Clarinet and Piano (1940)
A performance by unnamed students at the Conservatorio Superior de Música de Vigo in January 2020. Recording uploaded to YouTube by Raúl Rodríguez González: <https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8EV76o454kQ>
Op. 9: Concerto for Clarinet and Orchestra (1940)
One recording released by Champs Hill Records (CHRCD160) in July 2020: Robert Plane (soloist) and the BBC Scottish Symphony Orchestra, conducted by Martyn Brabbins.
Op. 10: Trio for Oboe, Clarinet and Piano (1940)
A performance by unnamed students at the Conservatorio Superior de Música de Vigo in January 2020. Recording uploaded to YouTube by Raúl Rodríguez González: <https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8EV76o454kQ>
Recorded commercially in 2023 for Chandos Records (CHAN 20290) by Juliana Koch (oboe), Julian Bliss (clarinet) and Michael McHale (piano).
Op. 12b: The Piper of Dreams for oboe solo (1942)
Performed by Elizabeth Fleissner during a recital at the University of North Texas (Voertman Recital Hall): <https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=97kgY1pJowQ>
Performed by Katherine Needleman, 4 April 2020 (Lockdown Solo Oboe Concert <https://youtu.be/rzezOHJ2UQs?t=679>
Performed by Gunhild Rebnord, video uploaded 15 July 2020 <https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=M5mTqJ8FmUA>
Various entries by young oboists for the Virtual Oboe Competition, July 2020, posted on YouTube.
Performed by Elizabeth Fleissner during a recital at the University of North Texas (Voertman Recital Hall): <https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=97kgY1pJowQ>
Performed by Katherine Needleman, 4 April 2020 (Lockdown Solo Oboe Concert <https://youtu.be/rzezOHJ2UQs?t=679>
Performed by Gunhild Rebnord, video uploaded 15 July 2020 <https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=M5mTqJ8FmUA>
Various entries by young oboists for the Virtual Oboe Competition, July 2020, posted on YouTube.
Recorded commercially in 2023 for Chandos Records (CHAN 20290) by Juliana Koch (oboe), Julian Bliss (clarinet) and Michael McHale (piano).
Op. 21: Flax and Charlock (movt. IV, for cor anglais solo) (1941)
Played by Elizabeth Fleissner of the Imparius Quartet at a recital at the Greater Denton Arts Council (Texas, U.S.A.), 29 November 2018: <https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ocm4eVJWkdw>
Op. 22: Symphony No. 1 in F minor (1942)
Op. 12c: Seaweed Song for English Horn and Piano
Rendition by Stephanie Carlson (English horn) and Stephen Sulich (piano) during a Lecture Recital at Concordia College in Moorhead, Minnesota, 16th September, 2017: <https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bBvQYELiaqA&t=4575s>
Recorded commercially in 2023 for Chandos Records (CHAN 20290) by Juliana Koch (oboe), Julian Bliss (clarinet) and Michael McHale (piano).
Op. 15: Jane Grey, Fantasy for Viola and String Orchestra (1940)
Performed by the BBC Scottish Symphony Orchestra under Teresa Riveiro Böhm, and broadcast on BBC Radio 3’s Afternoon Concert, 16th November 2020: <https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/m000pgb9>
Op. 16: Quintet for oboe, clarinet, violin, viola and cello (1941)
Première recording by Gareth Hulse, Peter Cigleris, John Mills, Lydia Lowndes-Northcott and Bozidar Vukotic first broadcast on BBC Radio 3’s programme ‘Composer of the Week’, 8 March 2021: <https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/m000sxzh>. Commercial release on the SOMM label in September 2021: <https://somm-recordings.com/recording/dedication-the-clarinet-chamber-music-of-ruth-gipps/>.
Op. 7: Brocade, Piano Quartet (1941)
Première recording at Colorado Public Radio, February 20, 2024, by the Boulder Piano Quartet:
Igor Pikaysen (violin), Matthew Dane (viola), Thomas Heinrich (cello), David Korevaar (piano)
Op. 20: Concerto for Oboe (1941)
Katherine Needleman plays a duet with herself, playing the solo part against her own recording of the piano reduction: <https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0kWq_8TDgAg>
Version with piano reduction played by Steven Stamer (oboe) and Cacie Willhoft (piano):<https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ro0Dmprza0E>
One commercial recording on the Chandos label (Gipps: Orchestral Works, Volume 2, CHAN 20161, 2022): Juliana Koch (oboe) and the Philharmonic Orchestra conducted by Rumon Gamba.
Katherine Needleman was also the soloist in the American première, which at the time of writing is available to watch on YouTube: <https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kbvlz6CIiJc>. Valentina Peggi conducts the Richmond Symphony Orchestra.
Played by Elizabeth Fleissner of the Imparius Quartet at a recital at the Greater Denton Arts Council (Texas, U.S.A.), 29 November 2018: <https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ocm4eVJWkdw>
Op. 22: Symphony No. 1 in F minor (1942)
Recorded for broadcast by the BBC Philharmonic Orchestra conducted by Rumon Gamba in September 2023; broadcast as BBC Radio 3’s Afternoon Concert on 22 February 2024 (<https://www.bbc.co.uk/sounds/play/m001w8hn>; from 1:00:23)
Then, in 2024, recorded by the same forces for Chandos’ third album of Gipps’ orchestral works: CHAN 20284.
Op. 23: Rhapsody in E flat for Clarinet Quintet (1942)
A rendition by Imparius Quintet of Texas, U.S.A. (<https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nszopHxzVBk>)
A rendition by Imparius Quintet of Texas, U.S.A. (<https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nszopHxzVBk>)
A third recording, this time by Peter Cigleris and the Tippett Quartet, was first broadcast on BBC Radio 3’s programme ‘Composer of the Week’, 9 March 2021: <https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/m000sxbk>, and released commercially on the SOMM label in September 2021: <https://somm-recordings.com/recording/dedication-the-clarinet-chamber-music-of-ruth-gipps/>.
Op. 25: Death on the Pale Horse, tone poem for orchestra (1943)
One commercial recording on the Chandos label (Gipps: Orchestral Works, Volume 2, CHAN 20161, 2022): the Philharmonic Orchestra conducted by Rumon Gamba.
Op. 27a: Rhapsody for Violin and Piano (1943)
One recording (2022) by Patrick Wastnage (violin) and Patricia Dunn (piano): Guild GMCD7827.
Op. 27b: Scherzo: The Three Billy Goats Gruff for Oboe, Horn, and Bassoon, 1943
Rendition by Emily Britton et al. of the The University of Evansville in Indiana: <https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JtCVoMVvpsU>
A rendition without spoken narration was given during a concert organised by the Association for the Promotion of English Composers on Wednesday, 9th June, 2021 at Craxton Studios, London. (Catherine Pluygers, oboe; Lowri Richards, bassoon; Henryk Sienkiewicz, horn): <https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jDB9uG7Cao0&t=1700>
Commercially recorded by Three Worlds Records for their 2022 disc ‘Winds of Change’: Gordon Hunt (oboe), Meyrick Alexander (bassoon), Ben Goldscheider (horn).
Op. 28: Chanticleer overture for orchestra (1944)
One recording on the Chandos label (Gipps: Orchestral Works, Volume 2, CHAN 20161, 2022): the Philharmonic Orchestra under Rumon Gamba.
Op. 30: Symphony No. 2 in one movement (1945)
Two commercial recordings. The first is by the Munich Symphony Orchestra, conducted by Douglas Bostock, a disc (Classico CLASSCD 274) released in 1999, not now available, but included on a compilation of British symphonies on Classico 23316. (Update 19th May 2020: reissued under the Musical Concepts label: MC3105)
The second (Chandos CHAN 20078) is with the BBC National Orchestra of Wales under Rumon Gamba, and was released in September 2018.
One recording on YouTube (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_FSm_DUbb_0) of the United States première performance of this symphony, given by the Seattle Philharmonic Orchestra under Adam Stern on Saturday 31st March 2018:
Op. 34: Concerto for Piano and Orchestra in G minor (1948)
The second (Chandos CHAN 20078) is with the BBC National Orchestra of Wales under Rumon Gamba, and was released in September 2018.
One recording on YouTube (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_FSm_DUbb_0) of the United States première performance of this symphony, given by the Seattle Philharmonic Orchestra under Adam Stern on Saturday 31st March 2018:
Op. 33: Song for Orchestra (1948)
One recording on the Chandos label (CHAN 20078): the BBC National Orchestra of Wales conducted by Rumon Gamba.
Op. 34: Concerto for Piano and Orchestra in G minor (1948)
Three recordings: the first from a BBC radio broadcast on the 24th May, 1972, with the BBC Northern Symphony Orchestra and the pianist Eileen Broster, conducted by the composer;
the second released in 2014 on Cameo Classics (CC9046CD), with the Malta Philharmonic conducted by Michael Laus, and the pianist Angela Brownridge (more information, for example, here: http://www.prestoclassical.co.uk/r/Cameo%2BClassics/CC9046CD):
III — Vivace [19'14" or sample here].
and the third, released in September 2019 on the SOMM label (SOMMCD 273), with the Liverpool Philharmonic conducted by Charles Peebles, and Murray McLachlan as soloist. (More information here: https://somm-recordings.com/recording/piano-concertos-by-dora-bright-and-ruth-gipps/). This record also includes Op. 70, ‘Ambervalia’.
and the third, released in September 2019 on the SOMM label (SOMMCD 273), with the Liverpool Philharmonic conducted by Charles Peebles, and Murray McLachlan as soloist. (More information here: https://somm-recordings.com/recording/piano-concertos-by-dora-bright-and-ruth-gipps/). This record also includes Op. 70, ‘Ambervalia’.
A version for two pianos was uploaded to YouTube in May 2022: Alicja Kojder plays the solo part; an unknown pianist plays the piano reduction. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XDAafQJpc0k
Op. 39: Cringlemire Garden, impression for string orchestra (1952)
Recorded by Sudwestdeutsches Kammerorchester Pforzheim under Douglas Bostock, CPO 555457-2.
Recorded in 2024 by the BBC Philharmonic under Rumon Gamba; Chandos CHAN 20284.
Op. 41: Coronation Procession for orchestra (1953)
Recorded in 2024 by the BBC Philharmonic under Rumon Gamba; Chandos CHAN 20284.
Op. 42: Sonata for Violin and Piano (1954)
One recording (2022) by Patrick Wastnage (violin) and Patricia Dunn (piano): Guild GMCD7827
Op. 45: Sonata for Clarinet and Piano (1955)
A recording of the fourth movement by Peter Cigleris (clarinet) and Duncan Honeybourne (piano) was first broadcast on BBC Radio 3’s programme ‘Composer of the Week’, 10 March 2021: <https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/m000sz5x>. Commercial release of the whole work on the SOMM label in September 2021: <https://somm-recordings.com/recording/dedication-the-clarinet-chamber-music-of-ruth-gipps/>.
Op. 48 Evocation for Violin and Piano (1956)
One recording (2022) by Patrick Wastnage (violin) and Patricia Dunn (piano): Guild GMCD7827
Op. 51: Prelude for Bass Clarinet Solo (1958)
Rendition by Mark O’Brien of the City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra (of which Gipps was once a member), uploaded on the day of, and in celebration of, Gipps’ centenary on the 20th February, 2021: <https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ctCb4_uebWg>.
Recorded by Peter Cigleris for the SOMM label, released in September 2021: <https://somm-recordings.com/recording/dedication-the-clarinet-chamber-music-of-ruth-gipps/>.
Op. 52: An Easter Carol (1958)
A première recording by the BBC Singers and Stephen Farr (piano), conducted by Sofi Jeannin, was first broadcast on BBC Radio 3’s programme ‘Composer of the Week’, 10 March 2021: <https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/m000sz5x>.
Op. 53: Seascape for wind orchestra (1958)
Recorded by the Erie County Chamber Winds, conducted by Rick Fleming, available on Spotify.com: <https://open.spotify.com/playlist/6Cqxxc7OibNbrQG7R5yd3h?si=QzE9LRUVQ0KwA8dxAADAQg>
Recordings of six performances are available on YouTube:
The Neoteric Chamber Winds of St Paul, Minnesota, 15 August 2017 <https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uzyZd4hGCaE>
Brittan Braddock conducts an unnamed wind band, possibly at the Colorado University Boulder College of Music <https://vimeo.com/255281010>
A performance by the ROCO ensemble of Houston, Texas, U.S.A. on the 17 November 2018: <https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H9eATByvD-E>
Laura Reyes conducts the CCM (Cincinnati College Conservatory of Music) Chamber Winds in a video uploaded to YouTube on the 11th February 2020: <https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ueXToMJy8Ek>.
A performance by the Wind Ensemble of the Royal College of Music in London, 22 October 2020 <https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dNJrpj4RBuU&t=1539s>
And a recording by the James Madison University Wind Symphony (Harrisonburg, Virginia, United States), 3rd March 2021. <https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BL8xFZusNMw>
A recording by musicians of the BBC National Orchestra of Wales conducted by Jonathan Bloxham was first broadcast on BBC Radio 3’s programme ‘Composer of the Week’, 10 March 2021: <https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/m000sz5x>.
Commercially recorded by members of the London Chamber Orchestra for their 2022 disc ‘Winds of Change’ (Three Worlds Records)
Op. 54: A Tarradiddle for Two Horns (1959)
Excerpts (?) performed by Antonia Chandler and Jack (surname unknown) of the Southbank Sinfonia (January 2021): <https://www.facebook.com/SouthbankSinfonia/videos/ruth-gipps-a-taradiddle-for-two-horns/346798782950485/>
Performed by Emily Britton and Tara Johnson for a lecture recital given at the virtual International Horn Symposium, 2021: <https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2lhEP6-B4Zw>
Recording on ‘Winds of Change’ (Three Worlds Records, 2022), duettists Ben Goldscheider and Annemarie Federle.
Op. 55: Magnificat and Nunc Dimittis for mixed chorus and organ (1959)
One recording, likely to be the world première, sung by the City Chamber Choir of London, conducted by Stephen Jones. Hannah Parry is the organist. Recorded in St Lawrence Jewry, City of London, in May 2019. <https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ojVNx7b0bMA>
One recording, likely to be the world première, sung by the City Chamber Choir of London, conducted by Stephen Jones. Hannah Parry is the organist. Recorded in St Lawrence Jewry, City of London, in May 2019. <https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ojVNx7b0bMA>
A recording of both canticles sung by the choir of Gloucester Cathedral under Adrian Partington (2022?):
1. Magnificat <https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VSe4p9aof6g>
2. Nunc Dimittis: <https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zd3B5IOEBQM>
Op. 56: Sonatina for Horn and Piano (1960)
Recorded by Addison Kotulski (horn) and Aubrey Marks-Johnson (piano):<https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B1M5wnQ95Wc>
Op. 56: Sonatina for Horn and Piano (1960)
Recorded by Addison Kotulski (horn) and Aubrey Marks-Johnson (piano):<https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B1M5wnQ95Wc>
Performed by Henryk Sienkiewicz (horn) and Sasha Valeri Millwood (piano) during an online concert organised by the Association for the Promotion of English Composers and broadcast on YouTube on 31st March, 2021 (<https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=guJ4NlgsicI>), the music having been recorded at Craxton Studios (London) on the 22nd March:
Performed at the Western Horn Festival (Illinois, United States) by Jena Gardner (horn) and Joanne Chang (piano) and uploaded to YouTube on the 13th April, 2021: <https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bRZzFZEEdl4>
Performed by Emily Britton (horn) and Yu-Han Kuan (piano) for a lecture recital given at the 2021 International Horn Symposium: <https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XSiKt_oU_Es>
Commercially recorded by Ben Goldscheider (horn) and Huw Watkins (piano) for the 2022 disc ‘Winds of Change’ (Three Worlds Records, 2022).
Op. 57: Symphony No. 3 (1965)
Three recordings, one commercial. The first was made from a broadcast by the BBC Scottish Symphony Orchestra, conducted by Ruth Gipps herself, on the 29th October 1969. Available on YouTube at <www.youtube.com/watch?v=1ZiLsTKu01Q>
II — Theme and Variations [12'50"] (see also Op. 57a)
IV — Andante — Allegro ritmico [29'15"]
The symphony received its first radio broadcast in fifty years at the BBC’s studios in Salford on the 4th December, 2019. It was part of the Afternoon Concert on Radio 3 (https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/m000bxgl) given by the BBC Philharmonic, and conducted by Rumon Gamba. https://www.bbc.co.uk/sounds/play/m000bxgl
The symphony received its first radio broadcast in fifty years at the BBC’s studios in Salford on the 4th December, 2019. It was part of the Afternoon Concert on Radio 3 (https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/m000bxgl) given by the BBC Philharmonic, and conducted by Rumon Gamba. https://www.bbc.co.uk/sounds/play/m000bxgl
Rumon Gamba also conducted the Philharmonic Orchestra in the first commercial recording, released in 2022 on the Chandos label (Gipps: Orchestral Works, Volume 2, CHAN 20161, 2022).
Op. 57a: Theme and Variations for Piano (1965)
A piano transcription of the third movement of the Third Symphony (Op.57). Available on Cameo Classics CC9046CD, played by Angela Brownridge; a sample can be heard here.
A second recording, by Duncan Honeybourne, was first broadcast on BBC Radio 3’s programme ‘Composer of the Week’, 11 March 2021 <https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/m000sytk> and released in 2021 by Prima Facie records on the disc ‘Opalescence’.
Op. 58: Concerto for Horn and Orchestra (1968)
A commercial recording (London Philharmonic Orchestra, conducted by Nicholas Braithwaite; soloist David Pyatt) is available on Lyrita SRCD0316 (e.g. here).
The concerto was also chosen by Annemarie Federle for her performance (with the BBC Philharmonic under Mark Wigglesworth) in the final of the BBC Young Musician of the Year competition, 2020-21. It can be watched here <https://www.bbc.co.uk/iplayer/episode/m000vsfj/bbc-young-musician-2020-final> or listened to here <https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/m000vqjn>.
2022: a new recording by Ben Goldscheider (soloist) and the Philharmonia Orchestra under Lee Reynolds (Willow Hayne Records WHR068).
2024: recorded by the BBC Philharmonic under Rumon Gamba; Chandos CHAN 20284.
Op. 59: Leviathan for Contra-Bassoon and Chamber Orchestra (1969)
Two renditions available on YouTube: the first is at <https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wPQB6z2uKSA> (Contrabassoon — Danielle Hartley; piano — Marco Fatichenti).
The second is, according to the uploader, a recording of a radio broadcast on 29 July, 1976 by the BBC Welsh Symphony Orchestra under Vernon Handley, and with Val Kennedy as soloist: <https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CPz4TmoEzlY>
The second is, according to the uploader, a recording of a radio broadcast on 29 July, 1976 by the BBC Welsh Symphony Orchestra under Vernon Handley, and with Val Kennedy as soloist: <https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CPz4TmoEzlY>
Op. 60: Triton for Horn and Piano (1970)
One rendition uploaded to YouTube on the 30th November 2019. Alicia Rafter (horn) and Dr. Hooi Yin Boey (piano): <https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kONTNql8jgI>.
One rendition uploaded to YouTube on the 30th November 2019. Alicia Rafter (horn) and Dr. Hooi Yin Boey (piano): <https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kONTNql8jgI>.
A second recording, from a concert given by the Association for the Promotion of English Composers on the 9 June 2021, can be heard here: <www.youtube.com/watch?v=jDB9uG7Cao0&t=1468> (24'25"). Performed by Henryk Sienkiewicz (horn) and Sasha Valeri Millwood (piano)
A third performance by Emily Britton (horn) and Kristin Jones (piano) was given for a lecture recital during the virtual International Horn Symposium 2021: <https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ECU9sxAFGaE>
Commercially recorded by Ben Goldscheider (horn) and Huw Watkins (piano) for the 2022 disc ‘Winds of Change’ (Three Worlds Records, 2022).
Op. 61: Symphony No. 4 (1972)
Two recordings. The first of a broadcast on the 3rd May, 1983, by the BBC Scottish Symphony Orchestra, conducted by John Pritchard; the second is a commercial recording with Rumon Gamba, and the BBC National Orchestra of Wales available on Chandos CHAN 20078. There is more information about the symphony’s dedication to Sir Arthur Bliss at http://www.musicweb-international.com/classrev/2005/Feb05/Gipps_Bliss.htm.
I — Moderato — Allegro molto — Poco meno mosso [0'00"]
II — Adagio [10'35"]
III — Scherzo [17'27"]
IV — (Finale) Andante — Allegro molto [22'12"]
Op. 62: Gloria in excelsis for Unison Chorus and Organ (1977)
A première recording by the BBC Singers and Stephen Farr (organ), conducted by Sofi Jeannin, was first broadcast on BBC Radio 3’s programme ‘Composer of the Week’, 10 March 2021: <https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/m000sz5x>.
Op. 63: Sonata for Cello and Piano (1978)
A première recording by Joseph Spooner (cello) and Duncan Honeybourne (piano) was first broadcast on BBC Radio 3’s programme ‘Composer of the Week’, 11 March 2021: <https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/m000sytk>, and was released on disc in 2021 by Prima Facie records (‘Opalescence’).
Op. 64: Symphony No. 5 (1982)
One recording of a performance given in 1983 by the London Repertoire Orchestra, conducted by Ruth Gipps. This symphony has never been broadcast or recorded commercially. It was reviewed in the Catholic Herald on the 14th March 1986: the idea of a Missa Brevis for orchestra was considered ‘intriguing’, but the reviewer was otherwise rather unenthusiastic!
I — Moderato Maestoso; Allegro Vivace [0'00"]
II — Andante [13'24"]
III — Scherzo: Allegro [17'52"]
IV — (Finale) Missa Brevis for Orchestra [26'42"]
Op. 65: Octet for Wind (1983)
A première recording by musicians of the National Orchestra of Wales and conducted by Jonathan Bloxham was first broadcast on BBC Radio 3’s programme ‘Composer of the Week’, 11 March 2021: <https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/m000sytk>.
Recording on ‘Winds of Change’ (Three Worlds Records, 2022) with members of the London Chamber Orchestra.
Op. 66: Sonata No. 2 for Oboe and Piano (1985)
Rendition by Stephanie Carlson (oboe) and Stephen Sulich (piano) during a Lecture Recital at Concordia College in Moorhead, Minnesota, 16th September, 2017: <https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bBvQYELiaqA&t=3360s>
Recorded by Catherine Pluygers (oboe) and Sasha Valeri Millwood (piano) at Craxton Studios, London, 22nd September 2023: <https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2fFhyeM0wjA>
Commercial recording (2023) for Chandos Records (CHAN 20290) by Juliana Koch (oboe), Julian Bliss (clarinet) and Michael McHale (piano).
Op. 67: The St. Francis Window for Alto Flute and Piano (1986)
Rendition by Andra Bohnet (alto flute) and Doreen Lee (piano); recorded at the Laidlaw Performing Arts Center, University of South Alabama, United States, 1 September, 2020: <https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xWoYGaTBlT0>
Op. 68: Scherzo and Adagio for Unaccompanied Cello (1987)
One recording by Joseph Spooner was released in 2021 by Prima Facie records on the disc ‘Opalescence’.
Op. 70: Ambervalia for orchestra (1988)
Première recording released on the SOMM label, along with the Piano Concerto, on 6th September 2019. (SOMMCD 273; https://somm-recordings.com/recording/piano-concertos-by-dora-bright-and-ruth-gipps/). Charles Peebles conducts the Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra.
Recorded in 2024 by the BBC Philharmonic under Rumon Gamba; Chandos CHAN 20284.
Op. 71: Introduction and Carol: The Ox and the Ass for Double bass and Chamber Orchestra (1988)
Op. 71: Introduction and Carol: The Ox and the Ass for Double bass and Chamber Orchestra (1988)
Available on YouTube at <https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aAQFsvuMk64> (Contrabassoon — Paul Sharrock; piano — Diana Ambache)
A commercial recording by David Heyes (double bass) and Duncan Honeybourne (piano) was released in 2021 by Prima Facie records on the disc ‘Opalescence’.
Op. 72: Opalescence for piano (1989)
One recording by Angela Brownridge available on Cameo Classics CC9046CD; a sample can be heard here.
A second recording by Duncan Honeybourne was first broadcast on BBC Radio 3’s programme ‘Composer of the Week’, 12 March 2021: <https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/m000szy4> and released in 2021 by Prima Facie records on the disc ‘Opalescence’. Honeybourne also gave a performance of the work during a lunchtime lecture recital at St. James’s Church, Piccadilly, on the 23 June 2021; the recorded Internet live stream can be watched here <www.youtube.com/watch?v=oDb1Wo6tvu0&t=1941> (32'31")
A performance was also given by Sasha Valeri Millwood during a concert organised by the Association for the Promotion of English Composers and broadcast on YouTube on 31st March, 2021 (19'26",<https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=guJ4NlgsicI&t=1166>), the music having been recorded at Craxton Studios (London) on the 22nd March.
Op. 73: Sinfonietta for 10 Winds and Percussion (1989)
Performed by the BBC Scottish Symphony Orchestra under Teresa Riveiro Bohm, and broadcast on BBC Radio 3’s Afternoon Concert, 16th November 2020: <https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/m000pgb9>. The recording received a second broadcast BBC Radio 3’s programme ‘Composer of the Week’, 12 March 2021: <https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/m000szy4>.
A commercial recording by members of the London Chamber Orchestra was released on disc in 2022 (‘Winds of Change’, Three Worlds Records, 2022).
Two other recordings: the Erie County Chamber Winds conducted by Rick Fleming:
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Sources
‘Ruth Gipps’ on Wikipedia: <https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ruth_Gipps>
Pamela Blevins: Ruth Gipps and Sir Arthur Bliss <http://www.musicweb-international.com/classrev/2005/Feb05/Gipps_Bliss.htm>
David Wright: Ruth Gipps <http://www.wrightmusic.net/pdfs/ruth-gipps.pdf>
Jill Halstead, Ruth Gipps: Anti-Modernism, Nationalism And Difference in English Music (Aldershot: Ashgate, 2006)
John France: The Land of Lost Content: Ruth Gipps, Symphony No. 3 <http://landofllostcontent.blogspot.co.uk/2015/06/ruth-gipps-symphony-no3-introduction.html>
The website of the British Music Collection in Huddersfield <http://britishmusiccollection.org.uk/>
and the second is a recording of a performance by the Rondell Ensemble, conducted by Ruth Gipps herself: <https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LDrr0k9MJvg>
Op. 74: Threnody for English horn and Piano (1990)
Op. 74: Threnody for English horn and Piano (1990)
Inscription: ‘I will lift up mine eyes unto the hills’. Rendition by Stephanie Carlson (oboe) and Stephen Sulich (piano) during a Lecture Recital at Concordia College in Moorhead, Minnesota, 16th September, 2017: <https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bBvQYELiaqA&t=5060s>
Recorded commercially in 2023 for Chandos Records (CHAN 20290) by Juliana Koch (oboe), Julian Bliss (clarinet) and Michael McHale (piano).
Op. 75: The Pony Cart for Flute, Horn and Piano (1990)
Performed by Simon Desorgher (flute), Henryk Sienkiewicz (horn) and Sasha Valeri Millwood (piano) during a concert organised by the Association for the Promotion of English Composers and broadcast on YouTube on 31st March, 2021 (64'44",<https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=guJ4NlgsicI&t=3884>), the music having been recorded at Craxton Studios (London) on the 22nd March.
Recorded by Leanne Hampton (flute), Emily Britton (horn) and Kristin Jones (piano) for a lecture recital given at the virtual International Horn Symposium 2021: <https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=01IGMm20TyI>
A commercial recording on ‘Winds of Change’ (Three Worlds Records, 2022) with members of the London Chamber Orchestra.
Op. 78: Pan and Apollo (1992)
A première recording by musicians of the National Orchestra of Wales was first broadcast on BBC Radio 3’s programme ‘Composer of the Week’, 12 March 2021: <https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/m000szy4>.
A recording of a live performance at the Curtis Institute of Music, United States May 9th, 2023: Izaiah Cheeran (oboe), Ben Price (oboe), Oliver Talukder (English horn), Subin Lee (harp): <https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hLxAbRqpTO0>
Op. 79: Lady of the Lambs for soprano and wind quintet (1992)
Recorded by Alanna Keenan (soprano), Leanne Hampton (flute), Elizabeth Robertson (oboe), Emily Cook (clarinet), Emily Britton (horn) and Eve Parsons (bassoon) for a lecture recital given at the virtual International Horn Symposium 2021: <https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gHqugoZnXOk>
A commercial recording released on disc by Three Worlds Records (‘Winds of Change’, 2022) with Mary Bevan (soprano) and members of the London Chamber Orchestra. Also performed on YouTube here: <https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MULTmK92iKI>
Op. 80: Sonata for Alto Trombone (or Horn) and Piano (1995)
A commercial recording for horn (played by Ben Goldscheider, and Huw Watkins playing the piano) was released in 2022 by Three Worlds Records on their disc ‘Winds of Change’.
Op. 81: Sonata for Double Bass and Piano (1986)
One recording by David Heyes (double bass) and Duncan Honeybourne (piano). ‘Opalescence’, Prima Facie (2021).
WoO 2 (Werk ohne Opuszahl; Work Without Opus Number): Reverie for Bassoon and Piano
Recorded by John Wallace (bassoon) and Sasha Valeri Millwood (piano) at Craxton Studios, London, 22nd September 2023: <https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dlPN17x83v8>
Update, 13 August 2018: some new recordings — including of the second and fourth symphonies! — have been added to this list.
Update, 13 September 2019: various recent updates hopefully reflect the Ruth Gipps revival.
February 2020: Further updates bear witness to a real international interest in Ruth Gipps!
Update, 13 September 2019: various recent updates hopefully reflect the Ruth Gipps revival.
February 2020: Further updates bear witness to a real international interest in Ruth Gipps!
August 2020: the Clarinet Concerto has now been recorded commercially.
March 2021: the list has been updated to reflect new renditions made in celebration of Gipps’ centenary.
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Sources
‘Ruth Gipps’ on Wikipedia: <https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ruth_Gipps>
Pamela Blevins: Ruth Gipps and Sir Arthur Bliss <http://www.musicweb-international.com/classrev/2005/Feb05/Gipps_Bliss.htm>
David Wright: Ruth Gipps <http://www.wrightmusic.net/pdfs/ruth-gipps.pdf>
Jill Halstead, Ruth Gipps: Anti-Modernism, Nationalism And Difference in English Music (Aldershot: Ashgate, 2006)
John France: The Land of Lost Content: Ruth Gipps, Symphony No. 3 <http://landofllostcontent.blogspot.co.uk/2015/06/ruth-gipps-symphony-no3-introduction.html>
The website of the British Music Collection in Huddersfield <http://britishmusiccollection.org.uk/>
