I was born in Salisbury, Wiltshire, and grew up in Leicestershire. My parents were involved in theatre, so from an early age I was interested in performing. I used to sit up in the theatre lighting box and watch the rehearsals! I suppose I was bitten by the performing bug! I took acting lessons, but music quickly became my main interest. My mum is a pianist, so taking up an instrument was a natural step. I spent 4 years at Chetham's School of Music in Manchester, before moving to New York to study at The Juilliard School in Manhattan.

I think being a true girl's girl made me choose the flute....The flute was so shiny and pretty, and easy to carry around! Also the sound - I think the flute is a such a soulful, natural instrument, very similar to the voice in that there is nothing between the breath and the sound production. I love the flute's history too - it's been around for ages!

There are so many things I love about performing with the orchestra. Feeling like part of a team is fantastic, and in a good concert, the atmosphere can be electric. It's so satisfying, and can be a very emotional journey too. I love the fact that a performance with the orchestra is unique every time. Even if you've played the same piece 4 nights in a row, someone will play a phrase slightly differently one night, and it inspires you to do that little bit extra.

In my spare time, I love travelling  and try and get away whenever I can. I have serious Manhattan withdrawal symptoms so love going back there, but also don't think you can beat a good walk followed by a cosy pub in the Lake District! I also enjoy jazz, cooking, shopping, and anything fashion related...but shoes are my main love! I have, er, rather a lot!

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