Helen Pitstow

Violin

Picture of Helen Pitstow

Contact Helen

m. 07855 579 086
e.  helen.rees2012@gmail.com
Helen was a student at the Royal Academy of Music, studying with Emanuel Hurwitz. During her studies she won a Principal’s award and the John B. McEwen Prize for string quartet playing.

She then began her freelance career, performing with various groups including:

  • English Baroque Orchestra;
  • English Sinfonia;
  • English Symphony Orchestra;
  • London Bach Orchestra; and
  • Monteverdi Orchestra.

In 1983 she accepted a 2nd violin position with English National Opera where she was twice promoted, and for 14 years was a sub-principal. During this time she maintained her freelance work, as well as joining the Crisantemi Quartet and giving solo recitals.

In 1999 Helen became 1st extra player at English National Opera and has been actively developing a freelance career including work with:

  • BBC Concert Orchestra;
  • Carl Rosa Opera Company (appointed no. two 1st violin, occasionally leading);
  • City of Oxford Orchestra;
  • English String Orchestra;
  • Grange Park Opera;
  • King’s Chamber Orchestra;
  • Milton Keynes Chamber Orchestra;
  • Oxford Philomusica;
  • Sarum Chamber Orchestra; and
  • Stowe Opera.
Helen plays chamber music regularly, and is also an experienced teacher and coach.