The Glasshouse

After 44 remarkable years with Royal Northern Sinfonia, bassoonist Stephen Reay is taking his final bow – but not saying goodbye to music just yet.

As he prepares for retirement, Stephen reflects on a lifetime of music-making, touring, and the joy of belonging to our orchestra.

“I’ll miss the music. Being able to play an instrument is like discovering magical powers, and making music together creates a kind of alchemy – it lifts you. That collective high shared during a performance is hard to recreate.

We’re very friendly. Guests and extras always comment on how welcoming we are, and I think that says a lot. I’ll miss my friends in the orchestra and the humour – there’s a lot of fun in orchestras with constant laughs and camaraderie. Playing an instrument in Royal Northern Sinfonia has been an extraordinary gift.”

Mozart holds a special place in Stephen’s heart.

“I never tired of playing Mozart and could play his music forever. It’s like Shakespeare – the more you know it, the more there is to find. His Piano Concerto No. 17 is just perfection, especially for wind players. And Mozart operas? They are the pinnacle for me. The times our orchestra has performed them have given me some of the best highs.”

Stephen says his time in the orchestra has been a journey of growth.

“Musically, my whole career has been a gradual journey. I’ve played under so many great conductors, and that’s a big part of learning in an orchestra. You grow by playing alongside seasoned musicians. It’s almost like osmosis, where older players pass wisdom on to younger players.”

He has fond memories of travelling the world.

“I enjoyed all the touring. I remember our first tours to America and Japan, which made a real cultural impact.”

And now, it’s time for something new.

“Leaving feels like leaving Hogwarts and going back to life as a muggle. I’ll miss everything: the music, the people, the process of building a concert, but I’ve got plenty lined up. I love tennis. I’ve just taken up croquet and I’m going on a croquet holiday soon. I’ve got walking holidays planned and play bridge a couple of times a week, and I’ve got my allotment. People always ask how I ever found time for the bassoon!”

While he’s stepping off stage, Stephen’s not stepping away from music.

“I won’t be leaving music behind. I love coaching amateur players, and I’ve run a holiday course at York University for many years – I’ll continue with that as I appreciate passing on what I’ve learned. One of the best things you can do as a young musician is to listen. Ask yourself, is there another part more important than mine?

You may see me in the Foyle Music Centre from time to time or at a concert, so I’ll still be around. But no, I won’t be short of things to do!

Being part of Royal Northern Sinfonia is one of the most important things I’ve done in my life.”