Fantasia Feature - Emily Earl

We sat down with Emily Earl (violin) for our next Fantasia Feature to discuss what she loves most about playing in an orchestra and her excitement for our BBC Proms debut this summer.

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When did you start playing Violin, and who has inspired you along the way?‍

I started playing the violin when I was 7 and my music teacher Delyth was a big inspiration for me back then. She played recorders and viols in a Baroque ensemble so I had a love for early music at quite a young age and became hugely inspired by Rachel Podger. I was fascinated with the variety of music, having the chance to play recorders, crumhorns and singing in different ensembles. Though I don’t really play those instruments anymore, that had a huge impact on my identity as a violinist.‍

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What do you love most about playing in an orchestra? ‍

Having a lovely group of people around you makes playing music really special. For me, it’s the little things; I love the quirks where you might play a phrase with your desk partner or another section and share a little moment, that always brings a smile.

There’s always new music to explore, every programme presents something different to get stuck into, and the energy of a live performance where everyone is really going for it never gets old.

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‍What music do you like listening to beyond classical?‍

I’ve got really into Laura Mvula’s music recently as we’re playing an arrangement of one of her songs at the Proms. I really like ‘Got Me’ from her album ‘Pink Noise’.

Usually you can find me listening to lots of jazz. My particular favourites are Billy Strayhorn’s ‘Lush Life’ and Errol Garner’s ‘Lullaby of Birdland’, which was played for the first dance at my wedding! ‍

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What instrument do you secretly long to play?‍

Well, I’ve always really wanted to play a bass instrument of some sort. My husband plays in a brass band, so last year I began learning the tuba! I don’t think I’ll be competing at the national finals any time soon though…
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Finally, can you tell us what you are most excited about for Fantasia Orchestra's BBC Proms debut this summer?‍

I am so looking forward to playing Harry’s amazing arrangements and playing with all my lovely colleagues. I’m also really excited to perform with a smaller ensemble at the Royal Albert Hall; the thought of something more intimate in such a big venue feels really special.

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Prom 20 - https://www.fantasiaorchestra.com/whats-on/bbc-proms-prom-20

Prom 22 - https://www.fantasiaorchestra.com/whats-on/bbc-proms-prom-22