Philip Gallaway

I was appointed principal second violinist of Sinfonia Viva in 2002.  Since 1974 I have also been the second violinist of the Coull Quartet, a group that held the post of Quartet-in-Residence at the University of Warwick for over 40 years. I’ve always found the role of playing a ‘middle’ part most satisfying and rewarding, as it is so important in providing the richness of sound of any ensemble.

 

I was educated in Norfolk and my fascination with the violin began when I was about 10 years old, after attending a professional orchestral concert. I soon began having violin lessons, and went on to join several local orchestras and chamber groups. I can still remember the excitement, whilst a teenager, of experiencing so much great music for the very first time. This inspired me to go on to study violin at the Royal Academy of Music, where I took every opportunity to study the string quartet repertoire. Such was my love of chamber music that for a while I was a member of three student quartets simultaneously, all of whom received regular coaching from renowned quartet leader, Sidney Griller.

 

My love of playing chamber and orchestral music remains undiminished, and I have been fortunate to enjoy performing and recording a rich variety of repertoire both at home and abroad, as well as teaching and coaching enthusiastic and talented musicians of all ages.