Get to know the OBS Team working hard behind the scenes!
This is Katie Ambrose, our Executive Director.
Tell us a bit about yourself and your background.
I’m a freelance mezzo-soprano, researcher, educator, and arts manager. Alongside depping work in London, I’m a trained record producer specialising in Western classical choral recordings. I teach at the University of York and am in the process of finishing my doctorate, which focuses on performance perception, gender, and choral music-making; much of my work sits at the intersection of performance, research, and production.
How long have you been working with OBS and what has been a highlight?
I’ve been working with Oxford Bach Soloists for four years. What continues to be a highlight for me is the creativity to be found in seeking out professional development opportunities for the whole team and finding opportunities for people to grow into — and excel in — their roles. I love shaping how we work together.
What do you enjoy most about working with OBS?
The people, and the collaborative spirit that comes with all working towards the same goal.
What do you like to do in your free time?
When I’m not working (though I must confess this is rare), you’d likely find me in a European city sipping coffee or wine, depending on the time of day, probably whilst attending some form of conference. I really enjoy being outside in the sunshine, exploring new places, and cooking delicious food.
Is there anything else you’d like to mention, talk about, plug, etc?
I’m passionate about how we listen, and about creating more reflective and inclusive practices in the way we approach classical music recording. This includes my research on the concept of the Female Ear with Dr Amandine Pras and Professor Jude Brereton, which explores gendered listening with respect to produced records and how that shapes musical experience and production. (https://aes.org/publications/elibrary-page/?id=22218)
