Claire Capps - Piano

Although a strong solo player, it was while studying for a music degree at the University Of Birmingham that Claire discovered her love of accompanying and working with other musicians. This prompted Claire to explore this interest further by taking a postgraduate diploma in accompaniment at the Guildhall School Of Music and Drama. It was here that Claire discovered the true worth of an experienced accompanist, a sometimes undervalued occupation! She became fascinated by the relationship between soloist and accompanist and how each influenced the other throughout a performance. This giving and receiving dialogue is what most inspires Claire as a musician.

Outside the UK, Claire has travelled to Siena to work as a repetiteur and has played on Swan Hellenic cruises with Terzina and The Shakespeare Review Company throughout Europe, South America, South Africa and the Caribbean. As part of the Emnica Duo with Stuart Eminson, Claire’s performances include: Balliol College, Oxford, Albert Hall Cafe Consort, St Martin in the Fields, and the Schubert Society of Great Britain. The duo reached the semi finals of the Landor Records competition in 2005. As a soloist, Claire has recorded the compositions and publications of Charles Seaton, which have led to two Radio 3 broadcasts. Claire is also a resident cocktail pianist at Luton Hoo Hotel.

Claire enjoys her educational work with young people which includes private piano tuition, and regular work accompanying students taking Associated Board Of The Royal Schools Of Music examinations.

Claire particularly appreciates playing in the instrumental combination of Terzina. This may be partly due to the fact that she is also a keen clarinettist, although her main love and ability most certainly remain at the piano so Zoe has no need to worry!

Claire also holds a LRSM diploma in piano accompaniment. Her post-graduate studies were supported by awards from the Lawrence Atwell’s Charity, MJ West Memorial Fund and the EB Wrightson’s Charitable Trust.