Molly O’Shea, first violin

When did you join the National Symphony Orchestra?

March 2020. 

Why did you choose to play your instrument?

I wanted to be like my older brothers! Both of them played violin and my mom used to bring me along to their lessons.

Where did you study?

I studied in Cork, and then in Belgium.

What do you enjoy most about being in the NSO?

Playing amazing repertoire and getting to work with inspiring musicians.

Tell us your favourite NSO story/memory so far.

Playing Mahler’s Second Symphony with Anja Bihlmaier earlier this year was an incredible experience – I had goosebumps the whole way through the last movement! I am looking forward to the NSO performing with her again this season!

Which soloist are you most excited to work with? Why?

I’m excited to hear Pekka Kuusisto this month; he’s an amazing violinist and getting to see him play a contemporary work is exciting. 

Which work in the upcoming season are you most excited to perform?

I am really looking forward to Shostakovich’s Seventh Symphony in January. 

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

Shostakovich. I’m a big fan of his string quartets and his symphonies. Getting to play his Tenth Symphony as a teenager inspired me a lot!

What do you enjoy doing when you’re not playing with the orchestra?

Reading, yoga, and going to the theatre with friends.

What made you decide to pursue a career in music?

Playing in orchestras as a teenager really inspired me. I still get the same buzz from playing in an orchestra now as I did then.

Do you have any secret talents?

Not really a secret, but I love to sing.