(1991) Solo oboe and small chamber ensemble (flute/piccolo, bass clarinet, violin, cello, piano and percussion) Firecracker is a virtuosic piece spun off from a motive inspired by the diabolically difficult etudes of Antonio Pasculli (1842-1924), perhaps the greatest virtuoso of his day. The musical fireworks are briefly interrupted by a playful tango interlude. Duration - ca. 13:00