Biography
I was born in Aix-en-Provence, France, and moved to Linlithgow, Scotland where I began playing the piano at age 5. You’d normally expect that I then would’ve picked up the violin at a similarly young age, and transferred to the viola later on. However, I have actually never played the violin! Instead, I made my way through the other sections of the orchestra by learning the trombone and the flute for several years, but something hadn’t fully clicked. I had always been jealous of my sister who was a cellist; and after a great deal of begging, my mother let me start viola lessons aged 15 and the rest is history.
The first really formative experiences in my life as a viola player came from my time with the National Youth Orchestra of Scotland, where I discovered the feeling of playing in a large string section and making a collective sound for the first time. I quickly fell in love with the viola, delighting in its flexibility and supporting role within the orchestra. Eventually, those moments let me to making the decision to pursue music as a career.
I began my studies at The University of Edinburgh, where I quickly realised that I would be more suited to a conservatoire degree. I then undertook my Bachelor’s degree at the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland, before moving to London to complete my postgraduate studies at the Royal Academy of Music. I have had the most amazing years studying firstly with Duncan Ferguson and then Jon Thorne, and experienced many challenges which encouraged me to grow as a player and push my limits. During my studies, I was fortunate enough to be given many incredible opportunities at both institutions – from playing alongside the most esteemed professional musicians, to making my solo debut in the Wigmore Hall.
Alongside performing, something which is very close to my heart is being an Assistant Tutor for the Benedetti Foundation. Having worked for this organisation for almost 5 years, it has shown me the enormous impact that music can have in a young person’s life. Being able to work with and observe the incredible network of teachers in this country is such a privilege, and continually inspires me. It has been incredibly impactful on my journey to becoming a well-rounded musician and person.