Kate was born in Derbyshire and began her cello studies at the age of five when her family moved to St Albans in Hertfordshire. She studied at the junior department of the Royal Academy of Music and at the age of 18 continued at the Royal Academy of Music, London,  with Lionel Handy and David Strange. On completion of her undergraduate course she was awarded a Dean’s Scholarship to study for a year at the University of Southern California in Los Angeles with Lynn Harrell.

On her return to the UK she joined the CBSO as a tutti player and four years later was appointed to the sub-principal position she still holds. As well as playing in the orchestra Kate has performed in many Centre Stage chamber music concerts. She also enjoys participating in many outreach projects, particularly those involving playing to and working with children with special educational needs and people with dementia.