Violin Workshop

Bradley Creswick is an internationally acclaimed violinist. He was appointed leader and first violinist of the Royal Northern Sinfonia Orchestra (RNSO) in 1984 and three years later moved to London to lead the Philharmonia Orchestra, still retaining a relationship with the RNSO.

 

He later became leader of the orchestra at the Royal Opera House before returning to the North East and the RNSO in 1994, where over the years he played to packed concert halls and where his rendition of Vaughan Williams’ The Lark Ascending was a highlight for music lovers. He retired from the RNSO in 2019 at the end of the orchestra’s 60th anniversary season and was bestowed the title of Leader Emeritus in honour of his remarkable career with them. 

He continues to perform across the world although also enjoys performing in the community, including at his local church.

 

Bradley, who lives in Whitley Bay is known for his unique and energetic style and diverse repertoire. He was destined to entertain from an early age having accompanied his father, a circus and fairground performer, who also played the drums and his mother, a jazz singer around venues, including Butlins at Bognor Regis. He started playing the piano aged seven and the clarinet at 12, only later becoming interested in the violin. At the Royal College of Music, he studied both the violin and piano.

 

Bradley is regularly asked to guest lead a wide range of orchestras, and he loves to play with friends, giving recitals around the country. He has occasionally been heard playing western swing fiddle at Sage Gateshead’s annual Summer Tyne Americana Festival.

 

He was awarded the MBE (Member of the Order of the British Empire in the 2021 Queen's New Years Honours List for his services to Music