BIOGRAPHY
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My career as a professional Violinist would not be a reality without the generosity of a sponsor. To this day I am hugely grateful to the late Stephen Bell for his immeasurable act of kindness, sponsoring Violin lessons from my initial studies up to my entrance at the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland. He left behind a wonderful legacy of financial music aid, and there are many musicians in the UK who have benefitted from his financial support and generosity.
Katrina Lee is a highly acclaimed violinist and collaborative musician based in Scotland, known for her dedication to championing diversity and inclusion in the arts. A multi-award winning Violinist and a distinguished alumna of the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland, Katrina earned a First-Class Honours and a Master of Music under the tutelage of Professor Andrea Gajic. Katrina's academic journey was marked by numerous accolades, including the Hilda Bailey Award, Ian D. Watt Award, Governors Prize for Strings, Robert Highgate Scholarship, Governors Prize for Chamber Music, Musicians Company Goldman Award and Scottish Ensemble Young Artist in 2014 and 2016.
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Hailing from Yorkshire, Katrina's Violin journey began with the support of the late Stephen Bell, who recognised her love for reading and writing and thought she might enjoy translating that passion into reading music. His generous sponsorship was crucial to her early development on the instrument, and this encouragement has continually sparked Katrina’s dedication to her craft as well as inspiring her lifelong commitment to ensure others have access to opportunities engaging in music.
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Katrina currently holds the position of Principal Second Violin with the Scottish Ballet orchestra, and has performed extensively with the UK’s top orchestras and ensembles; including the BBC Scottish Symphony Orchestra, Scottish Chamber Orchestra, London Philharmonic Orchestra, BBC Philharmonic Orchestra, BBC Symphony Orchestra, and Royal Northern Sinfonia. A highlight of her work has been touring, which has enabled her to visit many countries and perform on international stages across Asia, South America, and Europe.
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In her musical pursuits, Katrina aspires to amplify the voices of historically overlooked composers; with her passion in collaborating with like-minded creatives who share commitment to showcasing lesser-heard parts of the classical musical heritage.
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In addition to her performing career, Katrina is a lecturer in the Strings faculty at the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland; where she is dedicated to teaching and nurturing the next generation of musicians with a holistic approach. Katrina is also deeply involved in community music education, mentoring young musicians through the National Youth Orchestra of Scotland and Benedetti Foundation youth music programmes. Stemming from her humble background, Katrina is a passionate advocate for access to music for all, striving to make music education and performance opportunities available to everyone, regardless of socio-economic status.
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Outside of her music, you'll find Katrina in the kitchen whipping up a feast for friends and family - or perfecting the art of eating it all herself!
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Katrina plays on a contemporary Violin (2003) by Andrew Fairfax, inspired by Guarneri del Gesù, and a bow by Claude Thomassin.