If you think rock stars are the only musicians with great stories to tell, you haven’t met Clive Evans – Basingstoke Symphony Orchestra’s (BSO) resident oboist, who has just marked an incredible 60 years with the orchestra.
From a musical childhood in South Wales, surrounded by 78rpm records and a singing mother, to his iconic performances at The Anvil, Clive's life has been a non-stop symphony of passion, perseverance, and woodwind wizardry.
Clive’s love for music started early. His home was a mix of all kinds of music – from classical to showtunes.
His mother could often be heard belting out hits from South Pacific or My Fair Lady, and Clive was swept up in the melodies. But it was two particular pieces – Bach’s Air from the Suite in D and Evelyn Rothwell’s recording of Corelli’s Oboe Concerto – that really hit the right note for young Clive. Bach and Corelli ignited a spark, and the oboe became his instrument of choice.
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Music ran in the family. Clive’s grandfather, a miner with a musical heart, was a talented violinist and pianist, despite losing his right arm in a tragic mining accident. Undeterred, he improvised, playing the piano with his left hand and composing hymns. His resilience left a lasting impression on Clive, who would go on to make music a core part of his life.
Clive’s journey took a big leap when the family moved to Bristol, where he had his first oboe lesson from Captain Palmer – the very same teacher who had taught his oboe idol, Evelyn Rothwell. Clive’s love for classical music soared as he attended concerts at the Bristol Beacon, dreaming of one day performing on those grand stages himself.
When Clive’s family later moved to Basingstoke, his musical destiny was cemented. He joined the Basingstoke Orchestral Society (now BSO) and played his first rehearsal, feeling nervous but welcomed by seasoned musicians like orchestra secretary Reg Charlick and ex-army oboist Albert Featherstone. Clive felt right at home, and BSO became his musical family.
Clive’s career is full of standout moments, from performing the beautiful cor anglais solo in Dvořák’s New World Symphony to playing countless concertos. One of his most cherished memories is a 2004 charity concert at Deane Church, where he performed alongside cellist Lucy Scotchmer. With perfect acoustics, a packed audience, and even a picnic break in the sunshine, it was a day to remember.
Over the decades, BSO has evolved, growing from modest venues to performing regularly at The Anvil, one of the finest concert halls in the country. The orchestra’s repertoire has expanded, and younger talent has been drawn in, ensuring BSO’s future looks as bright as its past.
Clive has advice for aspiring musicians: practice, embrace new opportunities, and above all, enjoy making music. He’s also proud of his teaching legacy with Hampshire Music Service, which helped shape future musicians like his long-time BSO oboe partner, Sarah Dineen.
As Clive reflects on his 60 years with BSO, he also celebrates a personal milestone: 50 years of marriage to his wife, Barbara, who he met at a BSO performance in a chance encounter at a concert.
Clive looks forward to many more performances – and perhaps a few more surprises – as he continues to fill Basingstoke with the sweet sounds of his beloved oboe.
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