The RSNO’s new Sub-Principal Double Bass marks first concert at the BBC proms Posted Thu 30 July 2026
The Royal Scottish National Orchestra (RSNO) has announced the appointment of Yat Hei Lee to Sub-Principal Double Bass with his first concert as a full member of the Orchestra to be at the BBC Proms this Monday (3 August).
Lee is a graduate of Guildhall School of Music & Drama and Hong Kong Baptist University as well as a participant of the London Symphony Orchestra String Experience Scheme and the Glyndebourne Jerwood Pit Perfect Scheme. The Hong Kong-born double bassist has an extensive freelance career behind him having performed as Guest Principal Double Bass with BBC Scottish Symphony Orchestra, Opera North, Welsh National Opera, and Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra.
Following a thorough audition and trial process as well as having joined the RSNO on its recent tour to China, it was clear that Lee was the right person to take up the position of Sub-Principal Double Bass. Lee joins a section of the Orchestra which is growing from strength to strength under the new guidance of Principal Bass Nikita Naumov.
On his appointment Lee said: ‘I’m very excited to join the RSNO. I made so many great memories and had such wonderful experiences playing in this wonderful Double Bass section during my trial. I am looking forward to creating music with my colleagues. It is always special to play in the BBC Proms, especially with RSNO as my first official performance. I can’t wait to perform Shostakovich Symphony No11 in London next week!’
Lee joins his colleagues on the stage for the first time as a full member of the Orchestra at the RSNO’s concert, Rachmaninov’s ‘Paganini’ Variations, at the BBC Proms under the baton of Music Director Thomas Søndergård.