News

Stephen Dodgson left a notable body of work that is edging towards the recognition it deserves. Dodgson’s use of timbre, particularly woodwind (such as the gorgeous clarinet solos in Acts III and IV), recalls Britten's Sea Interludes, and his landscapes (the mists over the River Orwell; sunny Sydney) have an evocative, representational quality. William Wallace beguiles as bad boy Will Laud and Alistair Ollerenshaw is strong as the reliable, eventual ‘public benefactor’ John Barry

James Gilchrist talks to Radio 3's Sean Rafferty on In Tune about performing and recording Stephen Dodgson's solo songs, choosing between a medical and musical career, and music in the context of the pandemic.

Rewatch the live concert of Stephen Dodgson solo songs, a selection of those being recorded this year by a star cast of musicians.

In a concert devoted to the songs of Stephen Dodgson “Bow-wow” was the last word. Bow they did, and rightly so, and “wow!” is my response. Stephen Dodgson’s music was completely new to me, and I want to know more about this unique and evocative music.

Stephen Dodgson's Suffolk opera is finally on disc in a performance which does the work full justice ... This is a piece full of delightful textures. He is also careful about text, so much of the opera is in arioso-like recitative, ensuring we can follow yet the textures Dodgson creates mean that we enjoy the result ... Throughout, Dodgson links his scenes with atmospheric orchestral interludes which greatly add to the interest of the opera, and Perkins gets fine performances of these from the members of Perpetuo.

The opera has a powerful presence and flawless skilfulness ... and the whole cast of 15 is impressive.

Listen to the Thoroughly Good Classical Music Podcast and read the Gramophone blog on the new release of Stephen Dodgson's opera Margaret Catchpole.

Stephen Dodgson's 4-act opera Margaret Catchpole today! With Stephen Dodgson's evocative music and vivid characterisation, we are immersed in the internal battle between Margaret's own good character and values, and her heartfelt loyalty to Will Laud, a smuggler – the man she loves.

This series of chamber music discs from Toccata Classics has been quite a treat. The Magnard Ensemble has recorded another excellent disc. It highlights the skill and expertise of Stephen Dodgson the composer. The variety of music on this disc, with its complex and varied combinations, has shown the Magnard Ensemble at their very best. Excellent playing and another varied program serve to show what a vastly underrepresented composer Dodgson was.