Friday 13th April 2018, Barbican Hall, London.
A momentous occasion, and it had to be Friday 13th! I gave my final concert as Principal Harpist of the BBC Symphony Orchestra. I had 28 years of the most brilliant, hectic, orchestral life; countless premieres, two commissioned concertos, trips around the globe, RAH Prom Seasons, television and radio, commercial recordings, and I worked with the most eminent conductors and composers in the world. Such a talented and versatile orchestra, it was a dream to work with these colleagues, and I had the best ‘harp team’ (Myself and Louise Martin my brilliant Co-Principal)!
It was hugely emotional to step down and move on. Even in 2021, life still seems hectic, though very different, and the full story of my time with the orchestra will emerge ‘as and when’… (I am in the process of sorting out my recollections). It was a privilege to play in a final concert with the orchestra under the baton of Sir Andrew Davis, the wonderful BBC Symphony Chorus, and a brilliant line-up of soloists; Soprano Emma Tring; Tenor Andrew Staples, and Baritone Roderick Williams, all superb, as ever. For the kindest words spoken, gifts humbly received, and much celebrating, I will always give grateful thanks for making my brilliant send-off an evening to remember.