Born: Kent

Studied: In Kent where I led the Kent County Youth Orchestra before studying at the Royal Northern College of Music with Benedict Holland, and the Royal College of Music with Gaby Lester and Janice Graham.

Joined: 2004

Career before the Royal Ballet Sinfonia: I had a brilliant year with Southbank Sinfonia (Sinfonia Smith Square) during which I toured to some fantastic places, learned great repertoire and also met my wife, Verity!

Favourite pieces of music: Into My Arms by Nick Cave or Romeo and Juliet by Prokofiev.

First ballet or concert you saw:Kids’ concerts at the Royal Festival Hall when I was very little. I remember a teddy bear concert where you had to bring along your favourite soft toy.

First album: Apart from Jive Bunny & The Mastermixers, the first album I bought with my own money was Gold Mother by James, when I was 11. I became obsessed with that band, and indie music in general, and played with them on an orchestra tour last year, including at The Acropolis in Athens. It felt like a full-circle moment!

Favourite ballet to play: Apollo because it’s an incredible piece of music and has lived with me during my time with the Sinfonia, and Cinderella because I get to dress up and perform on stage!

Why the violin? I’m not sure why I was captivated by the violin as I come from a family of brass players, but maybe that says something about my character? I remember hating playing the recorder and watching the violin teacher in the music service with a sense of wonder. We get the best tunes and it’s a constant source of inspiration, discipline and challenges to try and play this instrument.

Alternative career: I’d be a journalist. I do a bit of writing for magazines such as Opera Now magazine and have really enjoyed that. Or I’d run a roastery as I love great coffee and all the geekery that goes with it.

Interesting facts about you: I got a silver medal in the Dalemain National Marmalade Awards. My favourite musical experience has been playing with Father John Misty.