Originally from North Yorkshire, I progressed through the National Children’s and Youth Orchestras of Great Britain and then continued my studies reading Music at Lincoln College, Oxford, graduating with first-class honours as well as receiving a distinction for my masters degree studying the bassoon at Royal College of Music.

I now freelance as both a modern and baroque bassoonist, recently playing with ensembles such as BBC Symphony Orchestra, BBC Philharmonic Orchestra, Royal Philharmonic Orchestra, Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra and Florilegium. As a soloist I have given several concert performances, and am currently a recitalist for Countess of Munster Musical Trust and Handel House Talent Scheme.

I strongly believe in the importance of education and community work and regularly work on and lead a variety of projects, for example a long-standing Roald Dahl themed project with Magnard Ensemble, and projects with Worshipful Company of Musicians, Sinfonia Cymru and Wigmore Hall. I am an experienced teacher of the bassoon, piano, singing and early years and I am delighted to have joined the wonderful team at Music House for Children!

Training with Emma

Catriona McDermind