The violin would be a very different instrument without the bow. It is the tool that breathes life into every note, shapes every phrase, and connects musician to music. For me, bows are not just tools – they are partners in interpretation, guiding colour, phrasing, and expression with every performance.

My journey as a musician has been shaped by hypermobile Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (hEDS), diagnosed during my studies at the Royal College of Music after years of struggling with a persistent hand injury. Learning to listen carefully to my body and adapt my practice became essential. There were times I wondered if I could continue performing at the level I aspired to, but through rest, physiotherapy, and mindful technique, I found ways to keep playing – and even to thrive.

It was during this period of adaptation that I discovered the transformative power of the bow. Some allowed my playing to flow freely; others caused tension or pain. Finding the right match between bow and repertoire became essential, giving me artistic freedom and reigniting my love for performance.

My explorations led me to meet Benjamin Hebbert, Elgar’s bow owner, whose insight encouraged me to hone my fascination into full-blown bow geekery. This inspired recital programmes centred on bows and ultimately my Elgar project - performing the Concerto and Sonata using Elgar’s own bow, a journey I continue to explore in concerts and recordings.

Being a bow geek has opened up a world of possibilities. During my final recital at the Royal Academy of Music, I performed five composers on five different bows, including Elgar’s and one made for Paganini – a project that solidified my approach and continues to inform my interpretation across repertoire.

Alongside my performance career, I am committed to advocating for musicians with disabilities. Sharing my story highlights how resilience, adaptation, and curiosity can sustain a performing life, and, I hope, inspires others to listen closely to their bodies, their instruments, and the music they love.

For me, the bow is more than a tool. It is a bridge between musician, music, and audience – a partner that allows me to keep playing, to keep learning, and to keep dreaming. I hope that sharing this journey encourages others to explore, experiment, and embrace the creative possibilities that lie in the details.