What first inspired you to start playing the oboe? 

Like lots of young children, I started off playing the recorder. At age 8 I was offered the choice to play either the flute or clarinet, neither of which took my fancy at the time. I wanted something a little different and the local woodwind teacher said, “well I do have an oboe in my car, but it’s quite difficult…and expensive!” That was it, the life of tearing my hair out over reeds began!

 

“At age 8 I was offered the choice to play either the flute or clarinet, neither of which took my fancy at the time. I wanted something a little different…”

 

Where has your musical journey taken you so far?

I’m very fortunate my musical journey has taken me around the world with some of the top orchestras, performing in the world’s best concert halls from Hong Kong to Los Angeles…and a little closer to home playing in a private concert for King Charles at his home in Sandringham!

 

You’ve held the position of Principal Oboe before at Welsh National Opera. It’s a significant role in an orchestra; can you tell us more about what it involves?

As principal oboe there is a lot of responsibility within the orchestra. A huge amount of work goes on behind the scenes, particularly when it comes to making reeds! The principal oboe needs to be there to tune the orchestra, making sure everyone plays at the same pitch. It’s also known to have some of the most beautiful and lyrical solos which I’m really looking forward to playing with the BSO.

 

“The principal oboe needs to be there to tune the orchestra, making sure everyone plays at the same pitch.”

 

Are there any pieces you’re particularly looking forward to playing with the BSO this season?

Having spent the last 12 years working in an opera orchestra, I’m really excited to be broadening my experience with the symphonic repertoire in my first season with the BSO. There are so many pieces I’m looking forward to playing for the very first time, particularly Sibelius 5 and Sheherezade. That being said, I’m really delighted to be on familiar operatic ground, playing The Ring: An Orchestral Adventure for my very first concert.

 

Are you looking forward to being based on the south coast?

I’m so looking forward to moving to the south coast. The fact that I can live and raise my family in this beautiful part of the country, as well as play in this amazing orchestra is very special!

Lucie joins us on stage for the start of our season in Poole on Wednesday 30 September. Please join us in giving her a warm welcome!