Richard Watkins, principal horn with the Philharmonia, is rapidly acquiring a reputation as one of the leading horn-players of his generation. He has appeared as a soloist in major London concert-halls under conductors of the highest distinction and also performed at Buckingham Palace and St. James Palace. In addition to his recordings of classical horn repertoire, he has been closely associated with the promotion of music by contemporary composers, including work written for him by Sir Peter Maxwell-Davies and first performances of compositions by David Matthews, Nigel Osborne and Colin Matthews. He is professor of horn at the Royal College and Royal Academy of Music in London.