Meet the Players – Ilona
Ilona studied at Chetham’s School of Music, followed by the Royal Northern College of Music and then won a scholarship for postgraduate cello studies in Chicago.
Ilona enjoys a varied performing career…most notably performing for the late Queen, and for the Pope. Her first television appearance was playing cello on Blue Peter, in 1995. Stage shows have included a tour with Russell Watson, and regular appearances with Elvis impersonator, Lee Memphis King, with our lovely quartet.
Chamber music is at the heart of much of Ilona’s performing, appearing regularly across the Northwest with her chamber group Lucia Strings, interspersed with orchestral work with orchestras including the Liverpool Philharmonia and Liverpool Concert Orchestra. Ilona has also appeared as soloist with orchestras.
Being passionate about passing on a love of music to the next generation, Ilona enjoys teaching many young people in the northwest. She is the Founder and Director of an annual summer music course for young players “Summer Sounds,” as well as tutoring for the Benedetti Foundation.
When not making music, Ilona is a busy Vicar’s Wife, Mum to three amazing children, a hilarious cockapoo and a house rabbit who loves cello music!!
