Elaine Clark, leader - violin

When did you join the National Symphony Orchestra?

1996 

What do you enjoy most about being in the NSO?

Playing the best symphonic music with wonderful colleagues and friends.

Who is your favourite composer, and what is your favourite work?

I love playing Mahler and Richard Strauss. Mahler’s Second Symphony, the Resurrection, would be up there as one of my favourites.

What do you enjoy doing away from the NSO?

Reading, sea-swimming, gardening. 

If you weren’t a musician, what would you be?

I’d like to be a counsellor or psychotherapist. I’m interested in people’s stories,

What is your greatest achievement?

Raising a family while having a career. I am enormously proud of my two daughters, now aged 21 and 18.

What is the best piece of advice you ever received?

I can’t decide between ‘Don’t take anything personally’ and ‘Pick your battles’!

Who is your musical idol?

The artistry of Cecelia Bartoli is astounding. I would love to hear her live.