I play the cello and I fell upon the opportunity to start lessons in S3 at high school when my then music teacher said that we had a couple of available slots with a cello instructor, and asked if I would be interested in lessons.
 
I already loved orchestral music and so jumped at the opportunity. I played throughout my time at school progressing through my grades and school exams before putting my bow down for a few years prior to starting PSO.
 
After leaving school, I didn’t have my own cello so I stopped playing for a good number of years. Then life became busy between starting work and a family, and so playing wasn’t really on my radar. But when I finally got my own cello and the time allowed for me to start properly playing again, I heard about PSO from a friend and thought it would be a fantastic excuse to pick my bow back up again and play with others. This was in August 2025 and I haven’t looked back since! I absolutely love it and Wednesdays are one of my favourite nights of the week!
 
Personally, I just love playing as part of an orchestra, there is a unique challenge to it!
 
The cello section is very supportive and understanding of one another especially during those tricky sections where we all look at each other with the same dazed expression after having worked our way through it. Every rehearsal is memorable for one thing or another, and Sam is a fantastic conductor who always keeps the mood light and encouraging, with just the perfect quip to hand when required.
 
Our Spring 2026 concert was a particular highlight for me as it was the culmination of my first season back and playing. It was very special.