RPO Player Imogen East playing the violin in rehearsal.
© Ben Wright

First Violin

Imogen started playing the violin at the age of six and whilst playing with the Croydon Youth Philharmonic Orchestra, she was inspired to pursue a career as an orchestral player. Eventually as Leader, she was lucky to work closely with their conductor Arthur Davison.

Having spent four years at the Royal College of Music, during which time she led each of the orchestras there, Imogen was awarded the Tagore Gold Medal on leaving, and immediately joined the BBC Symphony Orchestra. Imogen later moved to the Philharmonia Orchestra, playing the First Violin section and, very occasionally, leading.

Thirty years on, Imogen started freelancing and was offered a position as an Associate Member of the RPO. Imogen is looking forward to the next chapter of her career, working with this excellent, incredibly versatile and friendly orchestra.


This Chair is currently available for support. Becoming an RPO Chair Patron allows supporters to build a closer relationship with our players and offers unique insights into our broader programme of activity. Find out more here.

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