Classical Preview: Elgar concerto showcases talent of Opera North cellist

“Strangely enough I have never played the Elgar concerto in public, though like so many girls of my time, it was hearing Jacqueline du Pre perform the work that encouraged us to play the instrument.” I was talking to Sally Pendlebury, next Saturday’s soloist with the Sinfonia of Leeds, who last September became the principal cellist with the Orchestra of Opera North.

Growing up in Manchester and attending Chetham’s School of Music, at the age of 14 she became the youngest member of the European Community Youth Orchestra, and was later to become the orchestra’s principal cellist.

Surrounded by four musical siblings, three who are also enjoying a professional career in music, she was one of the founding members of the famous Vellinger String Quartet, with whom she toured most of the world’s most famous concert halls.

“Two of the quartet were female, the inevitable happened, and you don’t undertake busy schedules accompanied by a baby. Sadly the quartet folded.”

Married to the conductor, Douglas Boyd, for many years music director of the Manchester Camerata, the family moved to Yorkshire last September, a change from a London suburb she wishes she had made years ago.

Tomorrow night the orchestra of Opera North will appear in Leeds Town Hall with conductor Jac van Steen, in a performance of Mahler’s epic Seventh Symphony.

The orchestra’s leader, David Greed also conducts the Sinfonia of Leeds concert which includes Paul Ayres’ Metro, the winner of the orchestra’s 2010 composers competition.

Orchestra of Opera North, Leeds Town Hall, Mar 19, 7.30pm; Sinfonia of Leeds, Great Hall, University, Mar 26, 7.30pm. 0113 2243801 (both concerts).