Career

Janet Craxton (1929–1981) was a trailblazing English oboist whose career spanned orchestral, chamber, and solo performance, as well as dedicated teaching. Throughout her career, Craxton was in high demand as a soloist, premiering works by composers such as Ralph Vaughan Williams, Lennox Berkeley, Michael Berkeley, Elisabeth Lutyens, Elizabeth Maconchy, Witold Lutoslawski and Richard Stoker. In 1958, she was co-dedicatee and original performer, alongside tenor Wilfred Brown, of Ralph Vaughan Williams’ song cycle “Ten Blake Songs.” Renowned for her artistry and pioneering spirit, she held principal positions in some of the most prestigious ensembles of her time (see below). As a founding member of the London Sinfonietta and the London Oboe Quartet, Craxton championed contemporary music, collaborating with prominent composers to premiere new works. Her profound impact extended to the next generation of musicians through her tenure as an esteemed professor at the Royal Academy of Music. This page celebrates her remarkable career and enduring legacy in the world of classical music.