Barry Young
When did you start learning an instrument?
I started learning an instrument at the age of 10 when my parents were given a second- hand piano. It was another 4 years before I got interested in orchestral music at which point I began to play the cello. I didn’t get on with the cello terribly well and when the bass player in the school orchestra left I was asked to step in and I have been playing the bass ever since!
Earliest musical memory?
My earliest musical memory is probably my father picking out tunes on the piano. He was a plumber but had a very good ear! I also have fond memories of him playing playing military marches around the house very loudly!
Most memorable moment with the orchestra so far?
If I had to pick one special moment with the orchestra so far it would have to be the end of the Pavarotti concert in 1999 outside Stormont building when the lights went up and there were 12,000 people in the audience which the orchestra had been unaware of because it was so dark. That moment was absolutely fastantic!
What’s the most difficult aspect of the double bass?
The most difficult of the double bass is its size and the fact that there isn’t a lot of really good music written for it as a solo instrument.
Most inspiring composer?
Probably Bach
What’s in your cd player right now?
Stacey Kent and I’m also interested in French Café music at the moment.
What do you like to do outside of work?
My main hobbies outside of the Ulster Orchestra are DIY and gardening. I can think of nothing better than sitting in, or working in the garden