Born in the North Tyne Valley of Northumberland, Kathryn followed in her father’s footsteps and took up the Northumbrian Smallpipes at the age of nine, along with the fiddle.  By the age of thirteen she was already showing her exceptional talent, winning every open traditional Smallpipes competition.

Two years after releasing her first album ‘On Kielderside’, Kathryn turned professional at the age of 18 and began touring the UK and abroad.  Since then her success has continued, recording nine more albums and touring extensively with The Kathryn Tickell Band, spreading the enchanting sound of the Northumbrian Pipes around the globe. 

Amongst other successes, Kathryn has appeared in numerous TV documentaries, contributed to four Sting albums, and appeared live on stage with him all over the world.

Despite Kathryn’s worldwide acclaim, she has not forgotten her passion for her native North East England.  In 1997 Kathryn founded the ‘Young Musicians Fund’, which aims to help young people in the North East realise their musical potential. 

Kathryn’s incredible success was capped off by her being named ‘Musician of the Year’ at the 2005 BBC Radio 2 Folk Awards.  Kathryn is now a regular sight at the North East’s home of music, The Sage Gateshead, next to which she is pictured in the advert.

Completed in 2004, the spectacular Sage Gateshead provides the Newcastle Gateshead Quayside with its very own world-class music institution.  The Sage Gateshead offers the complete musical experience, allowing visitors to interact and involve themselves in music, both through performance and education.

Located on the Gateshead side of the Tyne River, the building’s unique and ultra-modern appearance is unmistakable, with a huge stainless steel shell sheltering the glass-faced buildings beneath.  The abundance of panoramic windows found in Sage Gateshead’s concourse offer stunning views over the Tyne River and newly developed Newcastle Gateshead Quayside.

Primarily a live music venue, The Sage Gateshead is home to two acoustically perfect auditoria and a 25 room Music Education Centre.  The Sage really is a world-leader in music performance and production, and attracts a truly eclectic mix of the world’s top acts all year round. The variety of musical genres on show is vast, including acoustic, indie, country, folk, jazz, electronic, dance and classical.

The Sage Gateshead is also home to the Northern Sinfonia.  Directed by Thomas Zehetmair, the orchestra is noted for its dynamic approach to programmes and performances and flies the flag for North East England all over the world. 

For all the latest information about Kathryn, please visit www.kathryntickell.com
For more information about The Sage Gateshead, please visit www.thesagegateshead.com