Robert Porter

Biography

Robert Porter began studying the bassoon aged 11. By the age of 14 he had been accepted as a Junior Exhibitioner at the Royal Academy of Music, and two years later joined the National Youth Orchestra. After studying with Martin Gatt, Roger Birnstingl and Enzo Mucetti he played with every major professional orchestra in London and was appointed Sub-Principal in the London Mozart Players in 1987. He has taught at Junior Guildhall since 1973 and has been Head of Wind, Brass & Percussion since 1985. As Artistic Director of the Brandenburg orchestras since their inception in the early 1980s Bob has shaped the musical ethos of the orchestras and built a unique musical entity, recognised internationally. He was made a Freeman of the City of London in 1991 for services to music. Other positions of responsibility include being a Member Artistic Commission of the Jove Orquestra National de Catalunya and a Trustee of Josephine Baker Trust.