Musicians of sinfonia ViVA
Philip Gallaway
Principal Second Violin
On what makes sinfonia ViVA special...
Music is still a passion for these players (not the case in some orchestras!) who are always deeply committed to giving their best performances. I think this is because many of them work in chamber groups, where their individual musical contribution is important. The orchestra's management is very efficient - visiting players often comment on this.
On a typical day with sinfonia ViVA...
A typical working day for me would go something like this -
- Check the contract to ensure I go to the right town.
- Usually a 1-2 hour drive (allowing an extra hour in case of traffic,) sometimes picking up one or two colleagues en-route.
- On arrival enjoy a welcome cup of tea and a biscuit (thanks to Matthew Lax, who always gets the urn set up before the players arrive).
- A 3 hour rehearsal, often in a school, (sometimes involving being eavesdropped by pupils).
- A meal out with colleagues, time to exchange anecdotes and jokes. Some musicians never really grow up, which is one of the things I like about them.
- The concert can be exhilarating, challenging, and exhausting or, more often than not, a mixture of all three.
- Mad rush to get changed and drive home in time to enjoy a glass of wine and a late night snack.
On personal fulfillment through involvement with ViVA outreach and education projects...
Seeing the expressions of concentration and pride on the faces of young musicians taking part in performances with ViVA.
Read full biography (PDF document)