Associate Principal Second Violin Marion Wilson
When did you join the RSNO?
I joined the RSNO on 24 September 1996. My sister Harriet joined on the same date, five years later!
Where are you from?
I was born in Edinburgh (and had a Glaswegian granny).
I grew up in Oxford.
Where did you study?
I was a Countess of Munster scholar, and Senior Exhibitioner at the Royal College of Music where I studied with Itzak Rashkovsky. Previous to that, I attended the Purcell School of Music, and Junior Guildhall.
What do you enjoy most about being in the RSNO?
I most enjoy the fact that no two days are ever the same. I love the steady stream of different conductors and soloists, concert venues, and even countries!
Tell us your favourite RSNO story/memory so far.
My favourite personal RSNO memory is of performing Britten’s War Requiem at a London Prom. The Royal Albert Hall is a very happy place for me, as it is opposite the Royal College of Music where I had five great years. It is also not so far from Oxford, so my parents are usually in the audience. At this particular concert my eldest daughter was singing in the RSNO Junior Chorus, and it was amazing to be able to share this exciting experience with her.
My favourite RSNO tale is sadly not a memory, as it happened before I joined, but I believe that during the climax of Berlioz’ Symphony Fantastique, at the bit where the tubular bells join, the player responsible for them was perhaps a bit ‘sleepy’ after waiting for so long to come in. He climbed up the step-ladder ready to do his bit, misjudged the height/distance, and fell, crashing through them! I really wish I had been there, it must have been spectacular!
What do you enjoy doing when you’re not playing with the Orchestra?
When I am not at work I am loving being Mum to my two daughters. I also enjoy teaching violin, particularly at RCS Junior Dept.
