James Flannery
Born: Northampton
Studied: I began my musical training through the Northamptonshire Music and Performing Arts Trust. I then went on to study at the Guildhall School of Music & Drama, where I spent six years studying with Rachel Roberts, graduating in 2022.
Career before the Royal Ballet Sinfonia: Upon graduating, I’ve been based in London, freelancing all over the shop with anyone who’ll put up with me! I've played with the BBC Symphony Orchestra, BBC National Orchestra of Wales, Philharmonia Orchestra (Guest No.2 Viola), City of London Sinfonia and Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra. I also frequently work with Fantasia Orchestra which is a new, exciting orchestra made up of many friends I studied with!
Joined: 2026
First concert you saw: I remember going to watch the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra at my local theatre, the Royal and Derngate in Northampton. They played a Tchaikovsky gala of all of his bangers, and I remember loving the cannon and pyrotechnics at the end of the 1812 Overture! I thought, if there are indoor fireworks everyday, I best become a viola player!
What do you love about playing your instrument? I love how with the viola you can get the best of both worlds, by playing on the C string with the cellos and then playing higher notes with the violins. Also, we get all the lovely harmonies to play in the middle of the string section and when given the chance, can show the other string sections how the tune should really be played!
Favourite ballet to play: This is very tough! I have to say Cinderella by Prokofiev tops it. The constant character changes and challenge of playing it all means every show is enjoyable! Apollo by Stravinsky is a close second. It’s also very pure and exciting music!
Most challenging piece you've played: Two come to mind: Ramifications by Ligeti – I think I was still trying to read it let alone play all the notes by the time the concert came round – and La Bagarre by Martinu which translates to 'The Brawl', need I say more…
Alternative career: Before picking up the viola I was obsessed with planes – I think I’d have definitely become a commercial pilot!
What do you enjoy doing outside of work? When not playing music I love listening to a podcast and going for a run. I also enjoy sampling the UK and Europe's best Negronis! still think about a great one I had at the Tipsy Baker Bar in Hamburg while on tour with BRB to this day! Well worth another visit I think.
Interesting fact about you: I went on tour with the Arctic Monkeys in 2023 to finish their world tour! I went with some of my best friends – let’s just say many beverages were enjoyed and it was the closest I’ll ever get to being a rockstar!
