David Thomas

David Thomas is a member of the First Violins and has been a member of the Philharmonia Orchestra since 1977. He began playing at the age of eight, going on to study at the Royal College of Music with Leonard Hirsch, who was the first Leader of the Philharmonia Orchestra. This interview took place in 2000.

Were your parents musical?

My father was very musical, he performed in and produced many of the Gilbert and Sullivan operettas. My mother sang in the local choral society, which was conducted by my father's brother.

Did you ever resent practising?

I never really enjoyed practising, but realised that I wouldn¹t get very far

if I didn¹t, so I did!!

What has been the highlight of your Philharmonia Orchestra career to date?

Performing and recording all the Mozart Piano Concertos with Vladimir Ashkenazy.

And what is your favourite piece of music?

I have several favourite pieces, but if I had to choose one to take to a desert island it would have to be An Alpine Symphony by Richard Strauss.

What is the best and worst thing about touring?

I love touring, not many professions give you the opportunity to see the world. I do miss my family when I am away though.

When was the last time you went to a concert?

A Philharmonia Orchestra concert last October.

What was the last CD you bought?

We were in Los Angeles for New Year's Eve (on the Philharmonia Orchestra/Disney tour) and were invited to the Disney party. There were three live bands playing during the party, one of which was called Big Bad Voodoo Daddy: I thought they were great, so I bought two of their CDs.

What do you listen to in the car?

I like to listen to a complete variety of music.

What's your favourite drink?

A bottle of good red wine.

When you do have time off, how do you relax?

I love cooking.

Finally, if you weren't a musician what would you be?

I am hooked on anything medical I would have loved to have been a surgeon.