About Jackie Hayter

I have been a freelance orchestral bassoonist and woodwind tutor since leaving the Royal College of Music as a postgraduate in 2004.  I have performed worldwide with some of the world’s best orchestras. I’ve also recorded regularly with ensembles, orchestras and notable musicians.  I play all the woodwind instruments and regularly teach Flute, Clarinet, Oboe, Recorder, Saxophone and Bassoon.

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My passion for classical music began as a teenager, my grandfather was a musician in the Royal Navy, and he was an early inspiration.  I took up the bassoon and practised tirelessly to work my way through the grades.  I loved performing and I knew early on the that I wanted to pursue a career as a professional orchestral bassoonist.

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At 15 I was awarded a full scholarship to Chetham's School of Music (Chet's).  Leaving my family and my school in Dorset, I moved to Manchester to immerse myself in musical study.  Chets gave me the opportunity to learn and perform with other talented young musicians, I was also the Principal Bassoon with the National Youth Orchestra of Great Britain.

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After Chets I successfully applied to read at the Royal Academy of Music and moved to London.  I went on to do my postgraduate at the Royal College of Music and finished my studies in 2004.

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I play all the woodwind instruments to Grade 8 standard, and at the Royal Academy I was awarded licentiate as a bassoon teacher.  Teaching has always been an important part of my professional portfolio, as I enjoy sharing my passion for woodwind with others.

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Combining my work as a freelance orchestral bassoonist with working as a peripatetic woodwind tutor.  Playing with the most prestigious orchestras in the UK and teaching at some wonderful schools. Playing bassoon for the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra gave me the opportunity to go on a world tour, supporting Sting on his Symphonicity show.  Another highlight was performing on the Star Wars Orchestra world tour and a stint at the London Palladium perfoming in the Wizard of Oz.

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As well as teaching in schools I have been involved in many educational programmes including “Double Reed Day” at Guildhall School of Music, Contra Bassoon recital and classes to all levels, Philharmonia Education Scheme, Music in Hospitals, RPO/ LPO Education Projects and Live Music Now!  For many years I have been part of the Music Makers summer programme.

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During the pandemic I have developed a successful programme of online learning and embraced the shift to remote examination. Two of my pupils passed their Grade 8, one with Merit.  One achieved a Distinction in their Grade 7 and another a Grade 5 with Merit.  My pupils have also done well in music theory exams, in fact, all my pupils have made excellent progression despite this very challenging year (2020).