Toby Turton

TOBY TURTON cello

Toby Turton studied cello with Sharon McKinley at the Welsh College of Music and Drama in Cardiff. Whilst studying at the Welsh College Toby was the recipient of both the String Prize and the Simon Clarkson award for the best all round musician having achieved the highest distinction mark on graduation for over a decade. He became the principal cellist in the College's chamber ensemble Afallon giving, most notably, critically acclaimed performances of Messiaen's Quartet for the End of Time.

Since graduating Toby has led an increasingly busy musical life. As a freelance orchestral player he has played professionally with such orchestras as the BBC National Orchestra of Wales and the Milton Keynes City Orchestra with conductors including Peter Donohoe, Jerzy Maksymiuk, Elgar Howarth and Adrian Leaper. He also regularly appears as guest principal with many regional orchestras. As soloist he has made numerous concerto appearances including a live radio broadcast of Elgar's cello concerto, a memorable performance of the same work with the Hitchin Concert Orchestra and a performance of the Cello Concerto No.1 by Saint-Saëns with the London Medical Orchestra. He has also participated in masterclasses with Stephen Isserlis, Alexander Baillie, Maud Tortelier, David Strange and the Brodsky Quartet. As chamber musician he has given many recitals in collaboration with Peter Hewitt for the music clubs and societies of England, Scotland and Wales.
Future plans include performances of Tchaikovsky's Rococo Variations a further recording of Beethoven Cello Sonatas and many more recitals for music clubs and societies around the UK