Bernard Reilly, percussion - sub principal 1

When did you join the National Symphony Orchestra?

I grew up in this orchestra with many contracts over the years. I became a member in 2017.

Where did you study?

Dublin and London 

What made you decide to pursue a career in music?

Doing what I love – and I am so lucky to able to do that. 

What do you most enjoy about being in the NSO?

Playing great music with talented people!

Why did you choose to play your instrument?

Percussion offers so many different instruments and techniques. There is always something new to learn.

If you weren’t a musician, what would you most like to do?

I’d run a boutique hotel in Andalucía…. saving that for later in life! 

What is your greatest achievement – musical or otherwise?

Composing and conducting my own music in Paris, Berlin and Madrid.