Katherine Bryer
Sub-Principal Oboe
Oboist Katherine Bryer enjoys a varied career working as an orchestral, solo and chamber musician with a variety of ensembles throughout the UK. After 3 years in Edinburgh studying with Joe Houghton at St Mary’s Music School, Katherine moved to London to pursue both a Bachelors and Masters at the Royal Academy of Music, studying oboe with Chris Cowie, Ian Hardwick and Celia Nicklin, and cor anglais with Sue Böhling and Jill Crowther.
During her time in London Katherine pursued a wide-ranging career as an orchestral musician, appearing with orchestras including London Philharmonic Orchestra, BBC Symphony Orchestra, and Philharmonia Orchestra. In August 2022 Katherine was appointed as Sub-Principal Oboe with the Scottish Chamber Orchestra. Katherine is a dedicated solo and chamber musician and has enjoyed many recital opportunities as a Countess of Munster Musical Trust Recital Scheme Artist with pianist and duo partner, Irena Radić. Her chamber pursuits have also led to performances with groups including Hebrides Ensemble, 12 Ensemble, and specialist contemporary music group, Explore Ensemble, in festivals taking her from Orkney to the Netherlands.
When not playing the oboe or making reeds, Katherine enjoys cooking, spending time with friends, and going for a not too strenuous run.
Interview with Katherine
What was your first concert experience?
When I was at primary school the music teacher came in to give a concert on the bassoon to my class. I remember thinking that this was the best sound I had ever heard, and I suppose that’s where my double reed instrument obsession began. As a performer I think my first concert experience was playing Jingle Bells on the recorder along with 30 other school children.
Where is your happy place?
I lived beside Hampstead Heath in London for two years before moving to Edinburgh, and everyday I’d go for walks on the Heath. It’s a really special place and I often went swimming in the ponds and lido. I’m glad I’ve moved somewhere with such an amazing landscape to explore and I’m looking forward to finding some more outdoor swimming places!
What is your favourite cuisine to make?
I love to cook South Indian cuisine. I’m really enjoying trying all the recipes from Meera Sodha’s cookbook ‘East’ which covers food from that region and from all across Asia.