About The Clifton String Quartet

The Clifton String Quartet was launched in 2000. The four musicians (two Violins, Viola and ‘Cello) are all professionally trained musicians who have performed together for several years, as well as performing independently in various professional chamber and orchestral ensembles. The quartet regularly perform in recitals and concerts and has been invited to play at a wide range of events and functions including naval dinners, weddings, corporate events and parties. They have performed in many venues ranging from stately buildings to marquees across Devon, Somerset and Cornwall.

The string quartet repertoire is very suitable for all kinds of events and we are able to select the ideal music to suit your individual requirements. We also do our very best to find any ‘special requests’, as well as being experienced in offering guidance in finding suitable music for your requirements, should you need some advice. Check out our Frequently Asked Questions page for further information.

For smaller venues, our string trio is often a good choice. The combination of Violin, Viola and Cello still has a wide repertoire – it doesn’t quite have the fullness of sound that the quartet can offer but a great option. We can also sometimes play as a violin & cello duo – again,  great for tight spaces and budgets. Get in touch for a bespoke quotation and to discuss your requirements for your day. You can listen to us play here.

  • Julie Hill

    Julie Hill [Violin] studied for a degree in music before being awarded a Laura Ashley Foundation Scholarship to pursue postgraduate performance studies at the Welsh College of Music and Drama. Specialising in contemporary and historical performance, Julie has performed extensively in a wide range of ensembles. She currently performs with Devon Baroque, of which she is a founder member, and she is regularly invited to lead a number of chamber ensembles & orchestras. She manages and performs with contemporary music group Exeter Contemporary Sounds and co manages their sister organisation Earworms which produces concerts for families at Exeter Phoenix. Alongside her performing career, Julie teaches violin, viola and chamber music at Blundell’s School, Tiverton and Exeter Cathedral School as well as maintaining a successful private teaching practice.

  • Julian White

    Julian White [Viola] studied the violin at the Royal Academy of Music with David Martin and, both as a violinist and violist, has worked with many orchestras including the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra and the Sinfonietta (formerly the Bournemouth Sinfonietta). Julian is much in demand as both a chamber and orchestral musician in the South West. Julian has also taught Violin and Viola at some of the South West’s leading independent schools including Blundell’s and Taunton School. In addition to his free-lance performing and teaching, Julian also writes about music and has published a range of articles and book chapters on aspects of Twentieth Century Spanish music and culture.

  • Mary Carson

    Mary Carson [Violin]    After studying at the Royal College of Music, Mary continued her training with the Academy of the BBC in Bristol and after an attachment to the BBC Scottish Symphony Orchestra, she joined the Royal Liverpool Philharmonic .
    Mary has a wide experience of playing with professional ensembles. Since living in the South West she performs frequently in a variety of professional ensembles including Devon Baroque as well as teaching violin and viola.

  • Hilary Boxer

    Hilary Boxer  [Cello] trained at the Guildhall School of Music, freelanced with London and Scottish orchestras, and since moving to the South West plays frequently as a professional chamber musician and orchestral player. She has founded, managed and promoted many different chamber ensembles and performances. Hilary teaches privately, and also at Blundells Prep and West Buckland. She tutors the Somerset Youth Orchestra cellos and has a broad experience of teaching curriculum music in primary and secondary schools, most recently at Heathfield Community College, Taunton. She conceived, created and continues to direct the Kentisbeare Children’s Orchestra. Hilary plays an old English cello made by Thomas Smith.