Richard Woodhams, the Philadelphia Orchestra’s celebrated principal oboist for four decades, has decided to retire. Woodhams plans to play through the orchestra’s 2017-18 season, including summer concerts, and then step down, an orchestra spokeswoman said.
“I think I am still playing well and am in good health, and I think that’s the right time to do this sort of thing for me. It was pretty simple,” said Woodhams. “That’s basically my rationale. I’m 68 years old, and all good things must come to an end. When you play a piece of music, you want a nice beginning and a convincing ending. I just thought it was a good time to move on.”
He joined Philadelphia in 1977. That’s one mighty fine and lengthy career! Congratulations, Mr. Woodhams!
