Chloe Harrison, French horn

Who or what inspired you to pursue a career in music and who or what have been the most important influences on your musical life and career?

Music has always been a part of my life for as long as I can remember. We used to have classical music playing on the radio during meals, so I always felt connected to that world and knew I wanted to be involved in it somehow. My family is musical too, and they’ve always been my biggest supporters.

What have been the greatest challenges of your career so far?

Getting into a competitive industry like music, I’ve noticed that imposter syndrome is something a lot of musicians deal with — and I’ve definitely felt it myself. It can be a challenge to always feel confident in your playing. But what helps me is remembering that at the end of the day, it’s all about creating art. Everyone brings something unique to the table because of their own life experiences, and that’s what makes it all so special and freeing.

Which performances/recordings are you most proud of?

I think the performances I’m most proud of go back to my school days, because that’s when I really started to realise I wanted to follow music as a career. I joined the Purcell School for Young Musicians as a sixth-former, and early on I got the chance to perform a solo at Wigmore Hall. It was an evening I will never forget!

More recently I’ve had the opportunity to play Strauss’s second horn concerto with orchestra. Performing this piece was a dream come true.

How do you make your repertoire choices from season to season?

As a current student at the Royal Academy of Music, I’m lucky to be able to explore a mix of both standard and more contemporary repertoire. While some of the pieces I work on are out of necessity – for example for projects, exams, auditions – I’m always coming across new recordings, music, and ideas that inspire me.

I’m also really fortunate to be taught by some incredible horn professors who always encourage and fuel that kind of curiosity and exploration.

Do you have a favourite concert venue to perform in and why?

I’d have to say Wigmore Hall (I’m sure that’s a common answer!). I’ve been lucky enough to perform there a few times, and each time has felt really special. It’s such an intimate space, which makes it easier to connect with the audience through the music — unlike bigger halls that can sometimes feel a bit like playing into an abyss. Every experience I’ve had there has been so positive and memorable.

What do you do off stage that provides inspiration on stage?

I make a point of surrounding myself with friends. As a musician, it’s so important to switch off sometimes — especially when you’re constantly pouring all your energy and focus into your craft. Spending time with people and just talking about everyday things really helps me unwind and keeps everything in perspective. In the end, it actually benefits my playing too!

What is your most memorable concert experience?

So far, some of my most memorable concert experiences have been my first professional concerts with Britten Sinfonia and the BBC Symphony Orchestra. It’s been such an exciting step and definitely a big milestone in my career.

As a musician, what is your definition of success?

The music you make has to feel rewarding to you and remind you of why you do what you do. If I walk away from a concert with a smile, I call that a win. But of course, you’re also playing for your audience. If they’re touched or taken somewhere new by your performance, that’s really all anyone can hope for. That’s what music is all about!

What do you feel needs to be done to grow classical music’s audiences?

I think one of the biggest things is reducing the stigma around classical music from a really young age. To grow audiences, especially among younger generations, we need to start early – both in primary schools and at home. It’s important that classical music is seen as something relevant and valuable to everyone, no matter your background or whether you grew up in a musical household. Raising awareness and respect for it as a part of everyday life can make a huge difference in building a wider, more diverse audience.

What advice would you give to young or aspiring musicians?

I believe the most important thing is to enjoy what you’re doing. Hard work is definitely important—like in any profession—but music starts out as a hobby and a way to express yourself. If you keep that joy and passion alive, it makes all the hard work feel meaningful and keeps you motivated along the way.

Chloe Harrison performs Britten’s Serenade for Tenor, Horn and Strings, with tenor Guy Elliott, at this year’s Hertfordshire Festival of Music on Saturday 14 June. Find out more / book tickets