Biography

Born and brought up in Arbroath, Karen trained at the RSAMD, Glasgow, Toronto and the National Opera Studio, London.

A joint winner in 2002 of the Kathleen Ferrier Award – possibly the most prestigious vocal award in the UK – Karen has become established as a top British mezzo-soprano and is one of the most distinguished young Scottish artists of recent years. Her voice is described as one of “extraordinary beauty and power”.

At the start of her professional career, Karen has already performed at top national and international venues with some of the leading orchestras in the UK and Europe, including the 2005 Last Night of the Proms as the soloist in The Rio Grande.

She is a much sought-after recital artist and soloist in Romantic orchestral works, where she is prized for her special combination of power and sensitivity. Karen is heard regularly on BBC Radio 3.

Karen enjoys a close relationship with Scottish Opera where she performed the leading role of Rosina in their 2007 production of the Barber of Seville.  For more information see www.karencargill.co.uk and www.maxinerobertson.com, her agent.

How the Award Helped

Karen performed the leading role of Rosina in the Scottish Opera’s 2007 production of the Barber of Seville. It is recognised that Rossini operas require specialist preparation in both vocal and language coaching.

The Dewar Arts Award helped finance Karen’s coaching with teachers of international reputation.