Kia ora,

I started playing the oboe when I was about 15 after learning the clarinet for a few years. I loved that it was an instrument that not many people played, so it gave me heaps of opportunities to play in orchestras even after playing for only a year or so.

I first played for CSO in 2011, I was the first new musician to join the orchestra after the Canterbury earthquakes. I instantly felt connected to CSO as everyone was so warm and welcoming when I came along to my first rehearsal.

My favourite thing about playing for CSO is how diverse we are. I love going from the Town Hall stage one day and into the prisons, as part of our In the Community Ki te Hapori work, the next. I also think the CSO has a great variety of concerts for our audience to attend, so hopefully everyone can find something appealing to come along to.

Additional to playing my instrument, I juggle the CSOs library work – this is my other hat for the orchestra. I order, organise, bow and distribute every piece of music that we play. I have been doing this since 2011. I love seeing both sides of the orchestra, on the stage and behind the scenes. It is interesting work and has opened my eyes to how much work goes on off-stage. I also teach the oboe to many buddying young oboists.

Please look out for me after a concert, I’m always up for a chat!!

Thank you for being part of our journey and supporting CSO.

Ngā mihi,

Jenny Clapp – CSO Principal Oboe