Michael Alexander:

(roll your mouse over the pictures to find out more about the players)

Michael began playing the violin at the age of 8. He studied at the Royal Academy of Music with Marjorie Lavers then Derek Collier.

Having played with the Ulster Orchestra while still a student, he gained a permanent position on leaving the Academy in 1975. He became section leader of the 2nd Violins in 1978.

Apart from the Quartet Michael has played in many other chamber ensembles. He is also currently President of Holywood Music Festival and has a keen interest in the musical development of young people.

Ashley joined the Ulster Orchestra in 1975 and became Section Leader in 1979.

He has performed many chamber music concerts with various duos, trios and quartets.

He has a keen interest in performer rights and copyright issues and served as Chairman of PAMRA, the Performing Artist’s Media Rights Association.

He is currently on the board of the Northern Ireland Music Industry Commission. (NIMIC)

Ashley Mason:

Helen Neale:

handmade violin by Peter Boardman,
Donaghadee

Kathryn Lowry:

Helen started playing the Violin at the age
of 12.

At the Royal Academy of Music she studied
the Violin with Ralph Holmes and Piano with Joan Last.

Helen joined the Ulster Orchestra in 1983.
She combines her many playing commitments with a busy Piano and Violin teaching schedule.

Kathryn began playing the 'Cello when she
was 8 years old.

In 1985, after studying at Trinity College
of Music in London she joined the Ulster Orchestra.

As well as her many commitments as a performer, Kathryn enjoys teaching 'Cello
in various schools around Belfast, and in Belfast School of Music.