Mary-Lou Graham
When did you start playing?
When I was 9 years old.
Who is your biggest inspiration?
Probably my sister who is a violinist and then the french cellist Paul Tortelier who was a real character and came to play in a nearby town when I had just started. I was lucky enough to meet him later on at college when I turned pages for the pianist on the televised masterclasses in the late 80’s and we sat and chatted for ages.
Where did you study?
Royal Northern College of Music in Manchester with Raphael Sommer
What types of music do enjoy playing?
I really love Vivaldi and Corelli in chamber orchestras but you can't beat a luscious tune by Brahms or Rachmaninov to get a cellist going!
What type of music do you enjoy listening to?
Many things. I do listen to a lot of classical music but also love to chill to Jazz and 1980's pop music is just the best to dance to.
What do you love about teaching?
It is wonderful to see the students progress on their instruments and blossom as young people as their confidence grows. I find it fascinating to see how different approaches work with different students - adult pupils certainly keep you on your toes with their probing questions.
What is your favourite leisure activity?
I love walking with our mad dog Molly in the local countryside. Bird spotting has always been a big part of my leisure much to my kids dismay as I stop yet again to identify a small dot on the horizon. Socialising with friends and family has to be up there too for relaxing and having fun at the same time.
