THE FLAUTIST
Russell was born in Southern Ireland and studied flute with Clare Southworth and later with Colin Chambers, former principal flute of the Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra.
At the Royal Academy of Music in London, he completed his studies under Richard Taylor and Lisa Beznosiuk, with whom he also studied the Baroque and Classical flute. Russell has performed for many of the world's leading exponents of the flute including Sir James Galway, Geoffrey Gilbert, Paula Robison, and William Bennett.
Russell has combined a busy freelance orchestral career throughout the United Kingdom, performing with many of the leading UK symphony orchestras under the direction of such conductors and artists as Libor Pesek, Owain Arwel Hughes, Melvyn Tan and Vernon Handley. He enjoys a very successful and versatile career performing as a soloist, recitalist and chamber musician for various worldwide musical and cultural associations. He has released two critically acclaimed CDs, including world premiere recordings of works for flute and harp.
THE HARPIST
Originally from Ireland, Oona graduated with a Bachelor of Music degree from Edinburgh University in 1984, specialising in the piano and the flute. She continued her studies on the harp with the renowned harpists Eira-Lynn Jones and Elinor Bennett, achieving a Performers’ Diploma (DipABRSM), followed by a Masters degree at the University of Wales in harp performance and the study of music of the Celtic countries.
A talented and experienced musician, Oona has established a busy and successful career as a freelance harpist. Over many years she has shown her versatility with such diverse engagements as a cocktail evening for the Duke of Westminster, a recital in a stately home in Wales, a series of recitals and talks for ‘Chester in Concert’, and a function in Liverpool Town Hall for TV personality Paul O’Grady. She has appeared at many notable venues in the North West for weddings and corporate events. Whatever the occasion Oona’s musicianship and professionalism are always warmly received.