THIS weekend the Colchester Symphony Orchestra return to St Botolph's Church in Colchester with a programme of Beethoven.

Ahead of the concert we had a chat with the orchestra's leader, Essex-based violinist Philippa Barton.

Philippa studied at the Royal College of Music, during which time she led both the RCM Chamber Orchestra and the Young Musicians’ Symphony Orchestra.

She subsequently spent three years with the Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra before returning to London to freelance with orchestras such as the BBC Symphony Orchestra and the London Mozart Players.

Philippa continues to enjoy a wide variety of work and leads a number of ensembles such as the Kings Chamber Orchestra, the Cornerstone Chamber Orchestra in Milton Keynes and the Essex, Colchester and Norfolk Symphony Orchestras.

Taking place tomorrow, May 7, at 7.30pm, tickets are £14, available in advance on 01206 271128.

What is your earliest musical memory?

Music was always a big part of our lives - I went to my parents’ choral society concerts from very young, and I sang and played the recorder early on.

When did you start playing the violin, why that instrument?

My brother was playing the violin and I asked for lessons when I was four, but I didn’t like my teacher and wouldn’t practice so my parents cancelled the lessons. I got another chance two years later with a new teacher who was great, and the rest, as they say, is history.

Where/when was your first concert, how did you feel?

I vividly remember going to the Proms for the first time when I was nine, and managed to find my way to the front rail to watch Anne Sophie Mutter playing the Brahms Violin Concerto - I was mesmerised.

What has been your greatest achievement to date professionally?

I have had the privilege of working with many amazing musicians - a couple of the best orchestras I have played with are the BBC Symphony Orchestra and the London Mozart Players.

Do you have a favourite concerto, why is it your favourite?

As violinists we have so many really incredible concertos to choose from. I can’t pick one favourite, but the Tchaikovsky would definitely be on my shortlist. It encompasses so many deep emotions, ending with the wonderful fireworks of the last movement.

When did you start playing with the Colchester Symphony Orchestra, what do you like about them?

I began leading CSO in 2011. They are such a fantastic orchestra, really friendly and with great energy. We always seem to be able to produce amazing results, with the added excitement of very limited rehearsal time.

What are you looking forward to in this particular concert?

When I was 16 and playing with Essex Youth Orchestra, Anthony Marwood performed the Beethoven Concerto with us. I fell in love with it then, but haven’t had the opportunity to perform it myself before this year. Then rather like buses, two performances came along at once! Having played it with Norfolk Symphony Orchestra in March, it’s fabulous to have another chance closer to home, to share such beautiful music with pupils, friends and family.