Hanson had created a small masterpiece when he wrote the "Serenade for flute, harp, and strings" for his wife as a gift for their 1946 wedding. The Pastorale also was a gift to her, composed in 1949 and orchestrated in 1950 with string orchestra replacting the original piano part. As in its companion work, the composition is flowing and melodic, although the tone quality of the solo instrument gives it a more reflective and less brilliant character. As before, use of specially invented scales provides a faintly exotic tinge to the lovely melodies. A nice addition to the oboe repertoire.

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