Biography

Bethan entered St Mary’s Music School as a violinist, taught by her father, and then became interested in the viola.

Her teacher was immediately struck by the speed with which she took to the viola, experiencing none of the difficulties that players often struggle with when switching from violin to viola, and immediately producing a beautiful, rich viola sound.

Bethan, who was brought up in Orkney, possesses a solid technique and strong sense of musical expression. Her teacher is delighted with the way she is developing an individual way of expressing her innate musicality on the viola. The only thing holding her back is the lack of an instrument to play on.

There are very few violists training currently, and so talented violists like Bethan need to be encouraged and nurtured.

How the Award Helped