Stephen Irvine
Stephen Irvine, Principal Tuba, from Enniskillen Co. Fermanagh, studied at the Royal College of Music, London, was principal tuba of the World Youth Orchestra and the Tenerife Symphony Orchestra.
Can you tell us a little bit about your family?
I have 5 siblings. We all studied music from an early age.Our mum had us do everything from swimming clubs to singing and piano lessons. My sister is a professional singer. She has a much better voice than me!
Where did you study music?
I studied at the Royal College of Music in London.
Earliest musical memory?
It has to be hearing the Ulster Orchestra in the Ardhowen Enniskillen when I was about ten. I was more than impressed. I thought to myself that I wouldn’t mind doing that someday!
How many tubas do you have?
I have currently just the one. But i’m looking to buy a big CC tuba plus another Eb as well.
What is the most interesting aspect of the tuba?
That’s a difficult one! I guess it has to be the fact that the tuba is the arm chair of the orchestra. It rarely gets a solo line so it’s not the flashiest of instruments but it provides great weight and support to the rest of the orchestra.
Do you perform outside the orchestra?
I perform with the Ulster Brass quintet plus I play quite regularly with other orchestras in the U.K and Ireland.
Any other musicians in your family?
We all studied music when we were younger, but myself and my sister are the only 2 perfoming as a career.
What’s in your cd player right now?
Four last songs by Strauss. It has still got to be the piece I enjoy listening to most.
What do you like to do outside of the Orchestra?
I really enjoy cooking. At the moment I’m looking to explore mediterranean cuisine. I also enjoy exercising regularly, plus watching Man utd play.