Tilly to perform with British Paraorchestra in Greece

Thursday 10 May 2018

Third year viola student Tilly Chester is to perform with the British Paraorchestra at the Stavros Niarchos Foundation (SNF) International Conference in Athens next month.

Tilly, who studies with Jonathan Barritt at the Royal College of Music, was diagnosed with Ehlers-Danlos syndrome at the age of 16. The syndrome is a progressive genetic condition that affects connective tissue, worsening joints over time.

Since joining the British Paraorchestra in 2012, Tilly has performed at the Paralympic Closing Ceremony, for the Queen’s Christmas message at Buckingham Palace in 2012 and at the Colston Hall in Bristol.

The orchestra will perform on the final day of the SNF conference, which is attended by 1000 international delegates and will provide a fantastic opportunity to showcase excellent musicians with a disability on an international stage. The SNF is an international philanthropic organisation which makes grants in the areas of arts and culture, education, health and medicine, and social welfare.

Tilly said: ‘When performing in the Paraorchestra, disabled musicians show that we are not defined or held back by our disabilities and inspire others to pursue and enjoy their passions. Music is such a huge part of my life and brings me so much joy. Being able to use it to help myself and others is a great bonus.’

Tilly will perform in the RCM’s Russian Chamber Music concert on 16 May.

Find out more about the British Paraorchestra at http://paraorchestra.com/.