Associate Principal Oboe Peter Dykes
When did you join the RSNO?
I joined the RSNO in July 2017.
Where are you from?
Richmond, North Yorkshire.
Where did you study?
The Royal Scottish Academy of Music and Drama (now the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland) (1996-2000).
What do you enjoy most about being in the RSNO?
It’s a great orchestra made up of great folk playing great music to great audiences!
What is your favourite RSNO story?
This was when I was a guest player with the Orchestra in 1998, sitting between my two teachers at the time, Stephane Rancourt and Stephen West. Being subjected to Stephen’s practical jokes set me up perfectly for orchestra life!
What do you enjoy doing when you’re not playing with the Orchestra?
Spending time with Jill, my wife, and Gustav my cat, and partaking in football and real ale. And teaching at the RCS.
Do you have any hidden talents?
I have Youth Football coaching qualifications from New Zealand.
If you could have dinner with anyone (alive or dead) who would it be, and why?
Sir Alex Ferguson, to ask him about the art of managing and motivating people, as I’m sure it would make me a better oboe player and teacher!
You’re stranded on a desert island. You’re allowed three albums and one book. What would they be, and why?
Genesis’ The Lamb Lies Down on Broadway, because I’m a sucker for progressive rock. The Emerson, Lake & Palmer version of Fanfare for the Common Man, because I’m a sucker for progressive rock. The Darkness’ Permission to Land, because it would keep me entertained and I’m certain that they’re suckers for progressive rock! For the book I’d go for Kingdom of Fear by Hunter S Thompson, because it’s so incredibly dark that being stranded wouldn’t look like such a bad option!
