Robert Porter joined the London Mozart Players in 1983
Where else do you teach/play?
Guildhall School of Music; National Youth Orchestra of Catalunya (JONC).
Where were you born?
Hemel Hempstead.
How old were you when you started playing, and why did you take up the bassoon?
11 – to increase natural breathing technique to aid recovery from a near-fatal viral infection.
What has been your most fun/interesting musical experience so far?
Playing a concerto for four bassoons with my ex teacher (Martin Gatt) and two of my pupils aged 18 and 12 – literally four generations.
Who have you enjoyed working with the most and why?
Martin Gatt (see above), Manny Hurwitz (probably the best natural musician I have ever worked with) and Leonard Bernstein (inspirational).
Do you play any other instruments?
Lots very very badly.
Do you have any hobbies you manage to fit into your spare time?
Cricket.
Where is your favourite holiday destination?
Menorca.
What's your favourite sound?
Champagne cork opening.
