Diana Cummings

Diana Cummings is one of the most distinguished violinists in Great Britain, her career spanning a wide spectrum of musical activities. She was born in London and studied first at the Royal Academy of Music, then in Rome and New York. She was a prize winner in the International Competition "Nicolo Paganini".

On completion of her studies, Diana developed a busy solo career playing an extensive repertoire from the Baroque to the Contemporary. Orchestrally she played with amongst others the Academy of St. Martin in the Fields, English Chamber Orchestra, and the London Bach Orchestra, with whom she performed much of the solo repertoire of Bach. During 1975 - 1985 she was leader and soloist of the Northern Chamber Orchestra; she formed the Cummings String Trio and in 1982 became leader of the English String Quartet. The ESQ is the resident ensemble of the London Festival of Chamber Music which was started in 1995 and is a month long, London- wide musical event. Diana is in continuous demand as an orchestral leader, guest leading many of this country's major symphony orchestras. In 1978 she became the leader of the Milton Keynes City Orchestra, a post which she still holds. In all these capacities Diana has broadcast frequently, and has made many recordings.

In 1982 following the death of her teacher David Martin, Diana became a Professor at the Royal Academy of Music and subsequently was made a Fellow.In 1994 she also became a Professor at Trinity College of Music. She adjudicates at Festivals and Competitions internationally.

Diana has continuing interest in working with amateur musicians. She has coached at chamber music and orchestral courses, she helps violinists who are ambitious to further develop their skills and is the leader of Chelsea Opera Group. In 1975 she became leader of the Surrey Philharmonic Orchestra, which is a vital and lively part of the area's musical scene, with an important and distinguished history.

Surrey Philharmonic Orchestra is Registered Charity No.: 1029543