Kate Worley is the recipient of the Nora Baird audition bursary at the Queensland Conservatorium. She is entering into her second year of study under the tutelage of Michele Walsh after relocating from her hometown of Adelaide. With a wealth of leadership experience behind her, including leading both AdYO and the AdYO string quartet from 2013-2014, Kate has also participated in various AYO programs since 2013. She has performed as the Principal 2nd Violin at National Music Camp and Young Symphonists, and recently performed in Momentum Ensemble’s launch tour in Sydney, Melbourne and Perth. She joined AYO for their February Season Concerts in Brisbane & the Gold Coast, as well as their upcoming International Tour to Europe, China and Australia with Manfred Honeck and Hélène Grimaud. Kate has experienced much success in her first year of study at the Conservatorium, both as member of the Lontano String Quartet which won the Ross Peters 4MBS Chamber Music Prize 2015, and as soloist, taking first place in Matilda Jane Aplin Prize 2015.
We asked Kate a few questions…
How old were you when you decided to be a musician and what led you the violin?
I started learning the violin when I was 8 years old as we had some family friends who were having lessons with a great teacher nearby. I think once I started playing I knew that I would always want music to be part of my life, but the decision to take music more seriously was probably made at the start of my music degree.
When you’re not rehearsing/performing/teaching, where are you most likely to be?
Probably at home, hanging out with friends and family or reading a book.
After you finish a concert, what is the first drink you want to have in your hand?
Lemon lime and bitters or water!
If there weren’t external factors involved, how long do you think a concert should go for?
I think 1.5 hours with an interval would be ideal.
When should we clap?
As much as I like the opportunity to reflect that silence between movements provides, I also think it’s important to make audience members feel comfortable. So perhaps there shouldn’t be such strict standards about clapping in the concert hall – it is good for the musicians to feel appreciated and get immediate feedback from listeners.
What have you learnt most from the people you’ve met to build your career?
I’ve learnt that it’s not always smooth sailing in a music career but hard work and persistence really pays off. The importance of networking and maintaining connections in the industry has also been emphasised many times.
What are you most excited about for 2016?
Probably at the top of list is the AYO International Tour happening in July. We are touring Europe, China and Australia and I can’t wait to be involved in such an exciting trip!!
