Brilliant International Musicians Series: Joana Ly (violin) and Martin Andre (piano)

Joana Ly (violin) and Martin Andre (piano)
Doors open 18:15, concert begins 19:00

Joana Ly – Bio

Portuguese violinist Joana started playing violin aged 4, and soon joined the Aveiro Conservatoire of Music where she studied until finishing school. After that, her violin studies took her to Lisbon (ANSO), London (RCM)and Rotterdam (Codarts), thanks to the support of the Gulbenkian Foundation. During this time she was lucky to be part of some fantastic training orchestras such as Gustav Mahler Jugendorchester and Southbank Sinfonia. Currently her orchestral work is mainly in the UK with ensembles such as Philharmonia, Opera North, London Mozart Players, and Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra.

Chamber music plays a big part in her life, having been part of two string quartets and currently managing her ensemble Artisti con Brio. This has led to playing at numerous festivals around Europe, such as Buxton Festival, Harmus Festival, Stift International Festival, and Lake District Chamber Music. Now her own festival keeps her busy – Islington Festival of Music and Art – and she recently joined the ENB Philharmonic Orchestra. 

Martin Andre – Bio

Martin enjoys working equally in the opera house and the concert hall, all over the world. Martin is also the co-founder and co-director of the Islington Festival of Music and Art. After learning the violin and piano at the Yehudi Menuhin School, he studied music at Cambridge University, and made his professional début conducting Aida for Welsh National Opera in 1982. 

This year Martin has just reached the landmark of 40 years of conducting operas and concerts in nearly 30 countries around the world! He has worked with many of the major British orchestras, as well as with other orchestras in Holland, Norway and Portugal. 

Martin is passionate about helping the next generation of musicians, especially conductors. He created the 4 Year Orchestra Repertoire Training Programme for the Royal College of Music, where he is a Fellow. He also formed the National Youth Orchestra of Portugal, which he managed for 5 years, including a triumphant tour of Italy. He also enjoys playing the piano in chamber music groups.