Matt Dunn – Section Principal Clarinet

Matt Dunn grew up in Whitby, North Yorkshire, where he began playing the clarinet at the age of nine. As a teenager, he was a member of the National Youth Orchestra and attended the Royal Northern College of Music Junior School.

He then went on to study at the Royal Northern College of Music, where he was taught by Chris Swann, John Bradbury, Colin Pownall and Nick Cox.  During his time there, he was particularly successful in chamber music, winning several awards and competitions.

Since graduating In 2004, Matt has had a varied preforming career. As well as being  a member of Sinfonia Viva, he also works regularly with orchestras such as the BBC Philharmonic, the Hallé Orchestra, the Ulster Orchestra, the Northern Chamber Orchestra and Opera North among others. He regularly worked with contemporary music ensemble Psappha, and has also played in the UK tours of several West End shows, including Wicked, Les Miserables and Mary Poppins. He has performed at several BBC Proms concerts, and been involved with many Radio 3 broadcasts.

As well as performing, Matthew is involved with education and outreach work, both as a leader and musician, taking part in  projects in schools, youth centres, hospitals and hospices. He teaches clarinet and saxophone, and also enjoys playing jazz and klezmer music!