Biography

Karen Radcliffe read Classics and Music at the University of Keele before undertaking postgraduate vocal training and gaining a first in performance for her Masters of Arts in Modern Music.

Since 2002 she has worked with Paul Farrington and Jane Manning OBE alongside whom she made her Purcell Room début  giving a worldpremiere of Oscar Bettison’s  I Saw in the “Performer’s Choice” series. Her subsequent London recital début was supported by The Park Lane Group and Jane Manning.

 Karen’s recent orchestral and oratorio work includes performances of  Beethoven Ah Perfido, Strauss Vier Letzte Lieder, Mahler 4^th Symphony, Vaughan Williams Sea Symphony, Poulenc Gloria, Respighi Lauda per la Nativita del Signore, Haydn Nelson Mass, Schubert Magnificat D486, Mozart Coronation Mass, Duruflé Requiem, Bach Cantata 212 and Handel’s Messiah.

Karen’s collaboration with pianist Michael Bell has included many performances throughout the UK and Europe of art song and chamber works drawn from an extensive and diverse repertoire. She has worked with and recorded for several contemporary composers and additionally made recordings for the Classics label.

As a voice specialist Karen has worked in theatre with actors on several professional productions in addition to teaching voice at Independent Schools and Universities.

New Notes SPNM  “Highlight of the presentation was the singing of the soprano Karen Radcliffe- radiant throughout but especially so in the emotional heart of the Mass” “Karen Radcliffe is a singer with an exceptional range and ability”

Royal Musical Association “…. a sublime recital from the soprano Karen Radcliffe ……. she was able to demonstrate her remarkable expressive range….”