Dr. Kathryn Ladano, a visionary in the realm of contemporary music, has continually redefined the possibilities of the bass clarinet. Hailing from Canada, Kathryn's journey in music began with an Honours Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of Waterloo, followed by a Master's degree in bass clarinet performance from the University of Calgary and a PhD in Musicology from York University. Under the mentorship of luminaries such as Stan Climie, Tilly Kooyman, and famed bass clarinetist Lori Freedman, Kathryn cultivated a unique approach that seamlessly blends traditional techniques with experimental soundscapes, expanding the instrument's horizons.
Renowned for her groundbreaking contributions to contemporary and experimental music, Kathryn Ladano has enraptured audiences across Canada and internationally with her virtuosity and innovative sound explorations. Her extensive repertoire features collaborations with esteemed composers and artists, shaping the evolution of modern music.
Beyond her performances, Kathryn is deeply committed to nurturing the next generation of musicians through mentorship, workshops, masterclasses, and lectures. Her tenure as Artistic Director for NUMUS concerts for a decade and as a contract faculty member at Wilfrid Laurier University for fourteen years underscores her dedication to music education. Currently, Kathryn serves as the bass clarinet instructor at the University of Waterloo, where her influence continues to inspire.
Residing in Kitchener, Ontario, Kathryn Ladano remains an active force in both performance and education, continually pushing musical boundaries and exploring new sonic frontiers. Her accolades include the 2015 Cook Homes Music Award from the Waterloo Region Arts Awards. She has released two solo albums, “Open” (2010) and “Masked” (2019), and the duo album “…listen” (2015) with her ensemble Stealth, featuring percussionist Richard Burrows. Her highly anticipated fourth album, “Anatomy of the Recovering Brain,” is scheduled for release in fall 2024, promising further innovation and creativity.
