London Philharmonic Orchestra Appoints New Violinist

Sophie Phillips has now joined the orchestra’s second violin section

Starting her new role as a second violinist with the London Philharmonic Orchestra (LPO) in April 2025, Sophie Phillips was previously working as a freelance violinist in London and around the UK. 

Hailing from Northampton, Phillips started violin lessons at age seven. She progressed through the ensembles of the Northamptonshire Music and Performing Arts Trust and was a member of the National Youth Orchestra of Great Britain for three years. 

At age 18, she moved to London to study with Ani Schnarch at the Royal College of Music and completed a master’s degree with Krzysztof Smietana at the Guildhall School of Music & Drama.

Following her studies in 2020, Phillips played violin in the Southbank Sinfonia and performed with the Philharmonia, Royal Philharmonic, BBC Symphony, City of Birmingham Symphony, and Bournemouth Symphony orchestras.

She will be joining the LPO in its concerts at the Royal Festival Hall this season, including with conductors Karina Canellakis and Edward Gardner. 

“Welcome to the LPO, Sophie!” the ensemble posted on Facebook. “Before joining us, she performed with orchestras across the UK, including the Philharmonia and Royal Philharmonic. We're so excited to have her join the LPO!”