World-class musicians on your doorstep!
Concerts in Caversham was established in 2011 by Adrienne Black and Timothy Watts to bring together musicians of the very highest calibre, to perform within the heart of the Caversham community.
A diverse range of concerts is offered throughout the year as well as an Autumn Festival of Music and Art held in conjunction with Caversham Framers and Art Gallery.
A Tribute to Timothy Watts 1957 - 2024
Timothy Watts, oboist with the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra and one of the founders of Concerts in Caversham, died in June 2024. He will be greatly missed by his family, friends, fellow musicians, and all those who knew him.
Below are some of the tributes from his friends and colleagues at the RPO:
Patrick Flanaghan, Principal Cor Anglais
“Tim Watts was an exceptional colleague and friend. He was one of the most diligent, dedicated, and talented musicians I have had the honour of working with.”
John Roberts, Principal Oboe
“As a second oboist Tim was second to none. He was an exceedingly calm presence in the section, and his tone production so fautlessly secure - I never had to even think about whether we'd play together, or if our sounds would match - he would just be there, right with me. Ours was a truly wonderful musical partnership which I will always treasure.”
Andrew Storey, Principal Second Violin and RPO Chair
“Tim was a true friend to everyone in the RPO. The Orchestra and staff are deeply shocked by his sudden illness and passing and I know he will be hugely missed by all. He was a member of the RPO for 23 years, occupying the second oboe seat with subtlety and skill.
“He really understood the unique role of a second player it seemed, always balancing and fitting in with the section perfectly and supporting those in solo seats around him. I would describe him as a rock in the woodwind section. He was always cheery, with an enthusiastic appetite for whatever work we were doing. I think Tim really enjoyed his work, and even more so when his daughter Naomi joined the Orchestra. He was a proud father!
“ … I, along with everyone in the RPO family, will miss Tim, his playing, and his inspirational passion for music and life.”
Artistic Directors
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Adrienne Black
Adrienne is a prize-winning and versatile pianist and harpsichordist. She has performed as soloist in repertoire ranging from Beethoven’s Choral Fantasia to complete cycles of Bach’s Brandenburg Concertos, as accompanist for winning performances in the BBC Young Musician of the Year, and for numerous chamber music and duo recitals throughout the UK and abroad. Adrienne is an alumna of the Royal College of Music.
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Timothy Watts
Timothy Watts, who died in June 2024, had worked with all of the UK’s leading symphony and chamber orchestras and was for many years concerto soloist with the City of Oxford Orchestra. He was the sub-principal oboe with the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra performing in the world’s most prestigious festivals and concert halls – from New York’s Carnegie Hall to London’s Royal Albert Hall. Timothy was an alumnus of the Royal College of Music.
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Naomi Watts
Naomi Watts is the Caversham Ensemble’s principal cellist. Having a passion for chamber music, she has participated in numerous festivals at home and abroad, and plays with the London Chamber Orchestra and the Chamber Orchestra of St John’s. As a member of the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra she too performs at the world’s most prestigious festivals and concert halls – from New York’s Carnegie Hall to London’s Royal Albert Hall. Naomi is an alumna of the Royal College of Music and is also a fully qualified yoga teacher.
