Kathryn Keen, principal 2nd violin

What do you do for a living?: I manage the 40-strong secretarial administration team at a large international architectural practice.
Tell us a little about the instrument you play? Do you play any other instrument?: I play one of the most common instruments in the orchestra: the violin. I play an English violin c. 1920 from the workshop of WE Hill & Sons, who had a long family history of violin making. They were particularly famous for their bows, although I don't have a matching set; my bow is by a modern maker, Louis Simon a Paris. If I find myself near a piano I will also give it a bash.
When did you start your musical education?: I was given a (tiny!) violin for my seventh birthday, which was a welcome change after three years of piano lessons. My mother taught me to read and write music (learning English at the same time) when I was very young; one of my earliest memories is of a piano lesson, aged 4. I continued with both instruments through primary and secondary school (avoiding dreaded PE classes with carefully scheduled music lessons), studied violin at university and subsequently enjoyed a brief and entertaining stint as a violin teacher before coming to my senses and acknowledging my superior skill: organising.
How long have you been with the CCO?: I joined the CCO in November 2000 and have played in all but 2 concerts since then. I am heavily involved with the day to day management of the orchestra.
What has been your favourite CCO concert?: Our 10 year anniversary concert in November 2005, followed closely by the very special Brahms performance in March 2008.
Which piece of music do you most enjoy playing?: Bach’s 3rd Brandenburg concerto. Although I generally start to really enjoy whatever we’re rehearsing after the 3rd rehearsal…
When was the last time you attended a concert as one of the audience?: Berlin Philharmonic with Zubin Mehta and Murray Perahia. I’m still amazed at the number of brass players they managed to squeeze on stage for the Strauss Symphonia Domestica.
What do you listen to in the car?: I am car-less!
What are your other interests?: Retail therapy :-)