Claire Wackrow

"I realised at some stage in my last year of school that even though I had only ever thought of working in music, I didn't actually have much interest in being an orchestral violinist.

"After completing my Bachelor of Music with First Class Honours, majoring in musicology, I spent a year gigging in Auckland before moving to London. I started out as an orchestral assistant with Southbank Sinfonia and progressed to orchestra manager. Following on from this, I freelanced in project management before joining the BBC Proms team for a seasonal contract. From there I balanced a permanent role in Community and Professional Development at Trinity Laban with various concerts, production and events freelance with BBC Radio 3, BBC Proms, the Royal Opera House and Heritage Orchestra / CW Productions.

"My musicology degree provided me with the grounding and knowledge to work in a variety of roles, and I use the skills I acquired along the way almost every day. Not just the obviously helpful skills in research, writing and presenting, but also score reading, general music history and repertoire.

"Starting out in the arts can be tough, there's no denying that. I certainly had my fair share of frugal living at the beginning, although London is a very financially demanding city. But, life takes all sorts of turns, and my experience to date is a testament to keeping your eyes open to opportunities in all shapes and forms!

"I am deeply committed to the future of the arts and music education, and genuinely look forward to seeing how my career unfolds."