Biography

I first came across the violin at a children’s classical concert at the philharmonic in my hometown and immediately thought it was really cool. I was five years old and begged my non-musical parents to sign me up for violin lessons. The beginning was tough, and I didn’t particularly enjoy how much effort it took. I had a break of about a year and a half, only to then start begging my parents to let me audition for a specialist music school!

I passed my entrance exam at the age of seven and spent the next twelve years studying violin and music theory alongside all my other academic subjects – all in the same building!

I moved to London when I was 19. I already knew it was the city where I wanted to study: vibrant, full of opportunities, and home to some of the highest-level conservatoires in the world. I then spent six years at the Guildhall School, where I have just graduated.

My time at Guildhall was inspiring, challenging and incredibly rewarding. It was also where I discovered my passion for chamber music – my biggest musical love to date. Since my first year of undergraduate study, I have been part of the Aquilae Quartet, a string quartet with whom I regularly perform at various concerts and chamber music festivals. Most recently, our music has taken us to Schiermonnikoog in the Netherlands and Montreal, Canada. We also have a special connection to Cornwall and return there regularly to perform.

There is something about making music in a chamber setting that I find especially inspiring. Making music with my friends and colleagues, listening to each other, and sharing that connection with an audience is incredibly special. It’s when I feel I’m truly in the right place.

As an orchestral musician, I have also been lucky enough to perform as concertmaster of the Guildhall Symphony Orchestra on several occasions, most recently leading The Rite of Spring. I love the collective energy and stamina of an orchestra, as well as the shared responsibility for creating something together. It’s something that really drives and excites me.

During my time at Guildhall, I also gained valuable orchestral experience through the Orpheus Sinfonia Foundation Programme and Guildhall’s Orchestral Artistry Course, where I had the opportunity to learn about orchestral life from musicians of the London Symphony Orchestra.

I am also very lucky to be supported by the Harrison Frank Family Foundation, who have loaned me a beautiful c. 1920 Carlo Carletti violin.

When I’m not practising or performing, you’ll most likely find me out on a long walk or hike, trying to escape the hustle and bustle of London, discovering new coffee shops, or travelling somewhere I’ve never been before!