Elaine Clark, leader - violin

When did you join the National Symphony Orchestra Ireland?

1996 

What do you enjoy most about being in the NSOI ?

Playing the best symphonic music with wonderful colleagues and friends.

Who is your favourite composer, and what is your favourite work?

I love playing Mahler and Richard Strauss. Mahler’s Second Symphony, the Resurrection, would be up there as one of my favourites.

What do you enjoy doing away from the NSOI ?

Reading, sea-swimming, gardening. 

If you weren’t a musician, what would you be?

I’d like to be a counsellor or psychotherapist. I’m interested in people’s stories,

What is your greatest achievement?

Raising a family while having a career. I am enormously proud of my two daughters, now aged 21 and 18.

What is the best piece of advice you ever received?

I can’t decide between ‘Don’t take anything personally’ and ‘Pick your battles’!

Who is your musical idol?

The artistry of Cecelia Bartoli is astounding. I would love to hear her live.