Lachlan Skipworth is considered by many to be one of Australia’s most accessible contemporary composers, his evocative melodic style and precise command of classical form making for a highly attractive blend.

He is also fond of wind music, having played clarinet in his younger days and studied shakuhachi flute in Japan for three years, so when Sydney’s Omega Ensemble approached him for a new work, a double concerto for Artistic Director clarinettist David Rowden and Sydney Symphony Principal Trumpet David Elton seemed the obvious choice.

Omega Ensemble, Vatche Jambazian and David Elton: Starbust. Photo © Amelia Kain

The result, a three-movement 20-minute work, captures a range of emotions, moods and styles and makes fine use of the ringing tones of both instruments, with duets, solos, call-and-response and some tight ensemble work all coming into play, all with a final lively movement worthy of a seasoned jazz combo.

Pianist Vatche Jambazian kept the ever-changing momentum on course for this world premiere while Tasmanian Symphony Orchestra Concertmaster Emma McGrath led the nine string players with a deft touch. The lovely slow middle movement featured both soloists...