Meet our players: Meg Moss, First Violins and Chair of the Committee

An occasional Q & A with members of the orchestra

What is your favourite animal or pet?
Horses – they are beautiful in all their shapes and sizes, and we had such fun with
our ponies when the kids were younger.
What is your favourite ice cream flavour?
Salted caramel…
What is your favourite piece of music?
It has to be Elgar’s Cello Concerto, preferably played by Jacqueline du Pré. It’s
eloquent, passionate, moving and I never tire of it. We were lucky to play it here
with the NWSO a couple of years ago with the soloist Richard May.
Apart from violin can you play any other instruments?
I’ve always played the piano too. Over lockdown, I set myself the challenge of
learning the guitar. I didn’t get very far, but I can manage a few chords which is
progress.
Who is your musical idol?
Well….my mum! She plays so many different instruments and sings in a choir too.
Music is her life, and being nearly 80 hasn’t slowed her down one bit. She
introduced me to music when I was very young, and encouraged and inspired me
to persevere with what became a passion for me too.
Who is the best musician you have worked with?
This is a difficult question. Over the years, I’ve had amazing teachers, conductors,
fellow chamber music and orchestral players, and opportunities to play with
outstanding soloists. It’s hard to single anyone out, and what does “best” mean? I
do recall being blown away by the pianist Freddy Kempf who performed with my
Youth Orchestra when he was only about 11. He was incredible, awesomely
talented and delightful. I think he went on to become BBC Young Musician of the
Year and a successful international career.