Katherine Clarke

Katherine is a talented viola player, with a particular interest in contemporary repertoire and a versatility that allows her to explore many different aspects of music, from playing in chamber groups to performing solo recitals. Having completed her undergraduate studies at the Royal College of Music, she went on to achieve a Distinction in her Masters in Performance at the Guildhall School of Music and Drama, with scholarships from the Goldsmiths’ Company and the Guildhall School Trust. She enjoys working with composers to write new works for the viola, showcasing the depth and range of this underrated instrument. Katherine is a keen chamber musician and has performed with various ensembles at St John’s Smith Square, LSO St Luke’s, the National Gallery and the British Museum, and has recorded at Abbey Road Studios. She performs regularly in several chamber groups including the Viella Duo, a violin and viola duo, specialising in lesser known works for this interesting combination. Combining her love of chamber and contemporary music, Katherine is a member of Echoshed, an experimental music collective, and has premiered many works for a variety of chamber ensembles. She was chosen to take part in the London Sinfonietta Academy in July last year, where she rehearsed and performed alongside players of the London Sinfonietta, the world’s leading contemporary music ensemble. As a dedicated orchestral player Katherine has performed in a number of top London venues, such as the Royal Festival Hall, the Barbican and Milton Court Concert Hall, and she has worked with many conductors including Sir Roger Norrington, Sir Neville Marriner and Sir Simon Rattle. During her final year at the Royal College of Music Katherine took part in the ENO Evolve scheme, which gave her the chance to shadow her mentor, participate in rehearsals and take part in an orchestral masterclass given by five members of the ENO. Last year she was selected by audition to take part in the Chipping Campden Festival Academy Orchestra, the UK’s leading side-by-side scheme, which took place in May. She also mentored the Festival's Youth Orchestra in August, culminating in a concert with soloist Nicola Benedetti.