Hazel Watson - Business Support Officer

I grew up in the Peak District, commuting to Sheffield for school and music. I started playing violin when I was 7 and found it difficult at first, so it wasn't until I started singing in school shows at the age of 10 that I really got into music, and I've been singing ever since. I switched from violin to viola when I was 13 - best decision I've ever made! My viola and I have played in a range of ensembles including the City of Sheffield Youth Orchestra and the Peak District String Orchestra with the BEST CONDUCTOR EVER Ian Naylor. I went on to study music at the University of Birmingham, majoring in jazz vocal performance. A university highlight was singing John Adams' Harmonium as part of a huge choir at the BBC Proms and being able to spot myself on the TV. It was epic.

I now live in Manchester and commute to Sheffield to be a part of the Music Hub, where I assist the operations team with finances and student enrolment. My life as a musician these days is made up of writing, recording, and performing my own songs (both solo and as part of my duo, Watson & Lockett) as well as working as a freelance violist and singer in a range of folk and funk bands. My greatest musical ambition is to show the music scene that the violin has HAD IT'S TIME and the time of the viola is upon us.

• Favourite song/piece of music - oooooh at the moment it could be Bushes and Briars by the folk song collector and environmental activist Sam Lee. The Lark Ascending-inspired fiddle part is breathtaking.
• Favourite thing to do outside of work - lying in my hammock amongst the trees, bathing in the sunshine and reading a book.
• Favourite food - CHOCOLATE. Specifically, the Tony's Chocoloney sea salt bar. Irresistible. In fact, I'd probably have that in the hammock as well.
• Favourite place in Sheffield - Café #9 - super cosy and has some great music nights.
• One thing about me that would surprise you to know - I am a MASTER OF SCIENCE (well, I did an MSc in Sustainability, but one of these things sounds cooler than the other).