Since the late 1970s, Christopher Redgate has specialised in the performance of contemporary oboe music. He has been described as having ‘extraordinary exploratory technical brilliance’ (Music Web) and of being a ‘tireless champion’ of extended techniques (Double Reed Magazine). This specialisation has inspired many composers to write for him including Michael Finnissy, Roger Redgate, Christopher Fox, James Clarke, Paul Archbold, Michael Young, Fabrice Fitch, Joe Cutler, David Gorton and Diana Burrell. New works are in progress from Brian Ferneyhough, Michael Finnissy, Edwin Roxburgh, Sam Hayden, Richard Barrett and Fabrice Fitch.

His performing career has taken him all over the world as a soloist, or in ensembles; he has performed in most European countries, Scandinavia, Australia, America, Canada, Mexico and China. He has worked with many ensembles including Ensemble Exposé, Suoraan, Trio Krosta, Kreutzer Quartet, Arditti Quartet, Firebird Ensemble, Music Projects/London, Lontano, Ensemble Modern, the Pittsburgh New Music Ensemble, Ixion, Apartment House, Topologies, London Sinfonietta and the BBC Scottish Symphony Orchestra. He broadcasts regularly for BBC Radio Three and has recorded several solo CDs.

He has been active as a teacher both of oboe and in workshops for composers. From 1986–92 he was professor of oboe at the International New Music Course in Darmstadt. Recent teaching events have included oboe classes at the Royal Scottish Academy of Music, Royal Northern College of Music, Birmingham Conservatoire, The Royal Welsh College of Music and Kingston University. Composition workshops (writing for oboe) have been presented at Kings College London, Huddersfield University, Goldsmith’s College, Kingston University, and Birmingham Conservatoire and in workshops run by the SPNM and the BMIC.

Chris studied at Chethams’ School of Music and the Royal Academy of Music. During his time at the Royal Academy of Music he won several prizes. A number of prizes in international competitions marked the beginning of his professional performing career.