I started playing the violin at the age of 8, having already been playing the piano for two years. Coming from a musical family, music is in my genes! I remember the sound of my mum’s orchestra tuning up and thinking, “I want to do that!”. I will always be grateful for the incredible musical opportunities I had as a child, from singing in choirs to playing in local and school orchestras. Music has taken me around the world, from Germany with Cannock Music Centre, to Denmark with the Staffordshire Youth Wind Orchestra (on oboe), all the way to Japan with the Staffordshire Youth Recorder and Renaissance Ensemble. Playing with these groups as well as the Staffordshire Youth String Ensemble also gave me the opportunity to perform in the Royal Albert Hall, amongst other major concert venues throughout the country.
I moved to Devon in 2010 and joined TSO in November 2011. Having played in the first violin section for several years, I now lead the (Magnificent!) Seconds. I joined the committee in 2017 so that I could give something back to the group I regard as my musical family. I initially supported David Gay in his (heroic!) role as both Secretary and Treasurer and was appointed Secretary in April 2021.
A translator by profession, I am also a keen chamber musician and play in numerous groups stemming from TSO. I play with the Greenwood Consort baroque ensemble and am a founder member of The Chemistry Quartet, 4PLAY and Totnes Chamber Orchestra.
I can honestly say TSO is the friendliest, most supportive group of people and I am incredibly proud to be part of this very special orchestra.