after barbirolli’s death in 1970 she started to play her oboe again. she taught at the royal academy of music, and was always known as “lady barbirolli” (or “lady b”). she often adjudicated at music competitions. her pupils respected her for her honesty and kindness. she wrote a book about "oboe technique" and the "oboist’s companion", a book in 3 volumes. she also wrote an autobiography called "living with glorious john". she was made an obe in 1984. she died the day after her 97th birthday.