Odyssey Quartet » 

The Odyssey String Quartet is an ensemble made up of professional musicians who are all graduates from the top London music conservatoires: the Royal Academy of Music, the Royal College of Music, Trinity College of Music and the Guildhall School of Music.

Formed in the spring of 1995, they have entertained at events all over the country, as well as maintaining a busy schedule of recitals at venues in and around London.

As well as playing in the quartet, members work for leading British orchestras, such as English National Ballet, the Hanover Band and English Sinfonia. Members have also worked with Robbie Williams, recorded scores for films and animations and played on the luxury Cunard liner, the QE2.

'Thank you for playing so beautifully and enhancing the afternoon' The Anthony Nolan Bone Marrow Trust

The Odyssey String Quartet has provided music for a host of satisfied clients at weddings, corporate and private functions, dinners, conferences and parties. Their extensive repertoire caters for all tastes, ranging from light classics through to popular favourites. Any special musical requests a client may have can be accommodated.

'Their lovely music made our day even more special' D. H. (bride, Hampshire)

Caroline Webb (violin), a founding member of the quartet in 1995, studied at the Royal Academy of Music. She now divides her time between quartet playing, teaching and a variety of freelance engagements.

Lucy Hewson (violin) studied music at Royal Holloway University of London, the Guildhall School of Music and Drama and at Trinity College of Music where she gained her Masters degree in performance. A busy freelance performer, she also tours with Carl Rosa Opera and often plays with the Pump Room Trio, Bath Spa.

Melissa Bastin (viola), a graduate of Kings College London and the Royal Academy of London, has played baroque viola with some of the countries leading specialist orchestras. She has also written a popular piano tuition book: Piano for the Young Football Fanatic.

Helen Nielson (cello) a BSc graduate from the University of Leeds continued studying at the Royal College of Music and is completing a part-time masters degree at Trinity College of Music.

Wedding Services
The Odyssey String Quartet would be very happy to provide its assistance to make your day that little bit more special. Very experienced at playing at a variety of different services and receptions, the quartet is able to provide the service of tailoring its work to suit your individual needs.

Give us a ring to discuss your requirements and we will do our very best to provide a package that will suit your ceremony. Remember, there is the additional option of performing certain pieces with solo trumpet, such as the Trumpet Voluntary by Jeremiah Clarke.

Any other pieces that would further enhance the occasion can be found or arranged especially, so don't be afraid to ask! No suggestion is overlooked, and the chances are, we have done it before!

'Wonderful selection of music...your company made it a night to remember' Titanic Historical Society

Corporate Functions
Have you ever thought about hiring a string quartet as a backdrop for your corporate functions? If not, think again! The Odyssey String Quartet has performed for many different companies such as John Lewis, Livery Companies, Harrods and various legal and accounting firms. Often we are booked as accompaniment to formal dinners and receptions, but they can also be for retirement and business anniversary celebrations.

'Delightful repertoire and quality of the playing' Andover and District Medical Fund

Educational Workshops and Coaching
Designed exclusively for children of Preparatory school age we are currently pioneering a scheme to visit schools and introduce chamber music playing and team-building. As teachers in London and the South-East we are made aware every day that children are often not offered the option of playing with others in small groups at the beginning of their musical education. Through this scheme, the emphasis will be on working together and enjoying the experience of chamber music.

Let us know of your thoughts on this scheme and contact us to find out our special rates for education authorities.

It is our hope that we will be ready to atend schools in both the State and Private sectors from January 2001

Odyssey Quartet's web profile was last updated 19th May 2012