Biography

Stéphane Rancourt was born in Canada, where he studied with Jacques Simard, at the Conservatoire de Musique de Quebec, and in Europe, with Thomas Indermuhle, at the Rotterdam Konservatorium and the Staatliche Hochschule fur Musik in Karlsruhe.

In Canada, he was the first oboist to win the Sylva Gelber Award, given by the Canada Council for the Arts, and was also the prizewinner of the 1991 Prix d`Europe.

As an orchestra player and soloist, he has performed in most European countries as well as South America, Russia, Canada, Japan and Australia.

Before taking up his appointment as Principal Oboe with the Halle Orchestra in 2003, he was Principal Oboe with the Royal Scottish National Orchestra for 8 years.

His discography includes Alan Rawsthorne’s Oboe Concerto, nominated for a Gramophone Award, Samuel Barber’s Canzonetta for oboe and string orchestra and Capricorn Concerto, selected as a Gramophone ‘Editors Choice’.

Under the Halle label, He has recorded Vaughan Williams Oboe Concerto, and recently, under NMC label, he recorded a live performance of: Apollinaire’s Bird, by John Casken, a piece written for him and commissioned by the Halle Orchestra.

Stéphane Rancourt also teaches oboe at the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland and Chetham’s School of Music.

Testimonial – What Stephane said about Performer Headshot and Portrait Service

Being a classical musician, like actors, it is not always down to perform, but also, being able to sell yourself. And for that, you need a good portfolio of headshot photography, featuring yourself and your instrument.

I was highly recommended to Colin, by a colleague of mine in the Halle Orchestra. Straight away, when you meet Colin, you feel at ease and so comfortable. Somehow, he makes you feel like you always been friend. He is a perfectionist and really wants the best for your photo shoot. I felt in safe hands, and knew straight away that these will be the best headshot photos I will ever have.

I now can’t wait to promote myself!