weeks later on my way to meet with Universal Music
music listeners are either not exposed to classical
UK. It was definitely one of those “pinch yourself”
music or choose not to listen to classical music. I
moments!
believe with the correct blend of pop or soul or rock,
it can help to bring the beauty of classical music into
As a part of the String Collective, you supply
the lives of a much larger audience.
string players to many televisions shows and other
venues. How was this group formed?
We have recently changed our company name to
'Cooper + Koo'. This group was originally formed
by my talented friend and musician Airlie Koo. She
met Musical Director Chong Lim while performing
on an episode of 'The Footy Show' and shortly after
he contacted her to form a string quartet for Dancing
with the Stars. Around the same time, Musical
Director Dorian West had employed us to perform on
the original X Factor on Network Ten. The television
work has been flowing in since then. Airlie and I are
very fortunate to have a wonderful friendship plus
great business relationship.
Have you had to develop your skills in business, as
well as performing, to manage your career?
Yes, most definitely. As a performance artist you are
your own business. I have learned that it is very
important to have a good understanding of everything
Who are some of your favourite classical
that happens around you.
composers, and what does their work mean to you
personally?
Do you think that performers who blend pop and
I love the French composers Maurice Ravel and
classical can help to bring classical music to a
Claude Debussy, particularly from playing their
wider audience?
exquisitely gorgeous violin sonatas. Their music is
Absolutely! It is a simple truth that the majority of
breathtaking and filled with so much colour. I also