Harry began his musical education at the age of 11, learning the clarinet with his local music service in Croydon before taking up the bassoon at the age of 16. A year later he gained a bassoon place with the National Youth Wind Orchestra of Great Britain, performing with them for two years, and in his last year at school received a full scholarship to attend the Royal Welsh College of Music and Drama to study with Steve Marsden.
During his four years in Cardiff, Harry took part in side-by-side schemes with the Welsh National Opera and the BBC National Orchestra of Wales and, in his final year, performed the Mozart Bassoon Concerto with the Royal Welsh College’s Chamber Orchestra at the official opening of the college’s new concert hall.
He then continued studying with a postgraduate degree in Orchestral Studies with Helen Simons at the Guildhall School of Music and Drama.
Since graduating, Harry has performed with orchestras across the UK including Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra, London Chamber Orchestra, Royal Philharmonic Orchestra and the Philharmonia Orchestra.
Alongside his orchestral playing, Harry enjoys chamber music, performing with the Rosso Ensemble during his time in Wales and with the Heron Quintet during his two years at the Guildhall.
What inspired you to become a professional musician?
I remember going to see the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra at the Fairfield Hall when I was about 16, just being knocked out by how much noise they were making and thinking that I wanted to do that!
What’s on your playlist right now?
Some Sibelius, a band called Young Oceans and a few podcasts.
Tell us something about yourself that might surprise us.
When I was in year 9, I was an extra in the third Harry Potter film which was heaven for a 13 year old. I tried to take some Hogwarts cutlery as a souvenir but I was no match for their security!