Katie’s mother was a pianist and cellist, so music has always been a constant in Katie’s life.

At Downe House she was a part of various ensembles and served as Head of Music, winning Barnardo’s Choir of the Year twice, entering the Young Musician of the Year and always having Dr Exon’s unfailing encouragement.

After achieving a first in a BMus with Honours in Vocal and Operatic Performance from Royal Birmingham Conservatoire, Katie was selected for the British Youth Opera’s directing programme and became a Young Artist Director for the Waterperry Opera Festival in 2024.

Now based in London, she works as a Freelance Opera Director and has worked with organisations such as the Welsh National Opera, National Opera Studio and has recently finished Assistant Directing on the Royal Opera House’s Turandot.

Katie’s advice to aspiring musicians is to choose a conservatoire based on the people, not just prestige; don’t be afraid to audition widely and keep networking, using social media to connect with people you admire.

Read more about our other inspiring alumnae in our Cloisters magazine