Twelve new musicians join Paraorchestra

Paraorchestra's Associate Music Director Lloyd Coleman introduces the twelve latest members of our ensemble

The musicians who make up Paraorchestra are at the centre of everything we do. Their sense of adventure and exceptional talents are what makes our artistic commissions unique and our live shows unforgettable.

That’s why, following a national callout for D/deaf, disabled and neurodivergent musicians, we are proud to announce that twelve new musicians will be joining Paraorchestra:

Meadow Brooks – Percussion
Faith Stonehewer – Percussion
Ross McDonnell – Trombone
Simone Seales – Cello
Molly Sellors – Oboe
Nina Lim – Violin
Hannah Runting – Harp
Lauren Martin – Bassoon
Bethan Langford – Mezzo Soprano
Josh Mountford – Cello
Zosia Jagodzinska – Cello
Andrew Huntriss – Bassoon

Paraorchestra exists to remove barriers to access and create opportunities for professional disabled artists to work and perform at the highest level. It's been a big year for us in that respect – we've released a studio album on BMG's World Circuit label, premiered numerous new shows - including a BBC Proms debut - and undertaken a tour across the UK and Ireland. 

Every week is an adventure here – and I’m confident this crop of versatile and dynamic musicians will bring huge amounts of artistry and passion to the work we make.

Our long-term vision is of a transformed cultural sector – one that is truly inclusive with a new generation of disabled leaders at the forefront, which is why we’ve invested heavily in our peer-led artist development programme Modulate.

These twelve musicians be a part of this change, joining our growing ensemble – of whom now 47 identify as D/deaf, disabled and/ or neurodivergent.

We’re so excited to welcome each of them to Paraorchestra.