Obscure Music Monday: Dallier's Fantaisie Caprice for Oboe and Piano
Henri Édouard Dallier (March 20, 1849 - December 23, 1934) was a French organist born in Reims. Dallier was a student of César Franck at the Paris Conservatory, and received a First prize diploma in organ and fugue in 1878. In 1879 he became "titular du grand orgue" of Saint Eustache, and in 1905 succeeded Gabriel Faure as the organist of la Madeleine.
As a composer, Dallier wrote for his instrument, and also for chamber groups, trumpet, and the work we are currently looking at, Fantaisie Caprice for Oboe and Piano . The piano opens up the work with an ascending minor line, which the oboe then follows. The piece capitalizes on the range of the oboe and especially making leaps of large intervals. There are some beautifully soaring lines as well, giving it a musical challenge as well as technical for the oboist.
Here's a recording of this work for you to enjoy!