Fintan Sutton, principal bass clarinet

When did you join the National Symphony Orchestra?

1987 

Why did you choose to play your instrument?

Actually, I wanted to play trumpet but my parents weren’t too keen as I think they thought it would be too loud. So I took up the clarinet.

What made you decide to pursue a career in music?

When I left school I worked in a bank for four years. But I didn’t want to spend my life working in banking so I auditioned for the Royal Academy of Music in London. I was lucky to get a position in the NSO shortly after finishing my studies.

What is the best piece of advice you ever received – either musical or general?

Find something you enjoy and work hard at it.

Do you have any secret talents?

I enjoy a good ballad session! 

You’re stranded on a desert island. You’re allowed 3 CDs. What would they be, and why?

Christy Moore Collection: I used to go hear him play in the Baggot Inn when I was young; Gordon Goodwin’s Big Phat Band: an amazing Big Band; Tom Waits’ Closing Time: he’s his own man and a great performer. 

If you could have dinner with anyone (alive or dead) who would it be, and why?

Nelson Mandela. He was amazing man who had a very interesting life.