Laura Armstrong, cello, is currently working with Prof. Steven Doane on the prestigious Artist’s Diploma programme at Eastman University in Rochester, New York, having finished her Masters with Raphael Wallfisch at the Royal College of Music in 2023. Prior to this, Laura completed a BMus (Hons) degree at the Royal Academy of Music studying with Felix Schmidt and Benjamin Hughes, plus jazz second study with Kit Downes.
Laura has had the privilege of attending masterclasses with Ralph Kirshbaum, Mario Brunello, Hannah Roberts and Alexander Baillie. She is grateful for additional input and lessons from Steven Isserlis, Steven Doane, Ludwig Quandt and Alban Gerhardt, plus mentorship from Sophia Rahman. Her contemporary classical work includes projects under the direction of Oliver Knussen, with mentoring from Harrison Birtwistle. Highlights include a newly commissioned work for BBC Radio 3 at Marsden Jazz Festival and Brahms double concerto with Nimrod Orchestra.
Laura has broadcast on BBC Radio 3, Swedish radio, WBGO (New York radio station) and Medici TV. Laura has played at the Baltic Sea Festival, the Royal Albert Hall and participated in the International Musicians Seminar at Prussia Cove in Thomas Ades’ class. She has also toured Scandinavia as a member of the Estonian Festival Orchestra under the baton of Paavo Jarvi.
Laura was very grateful to be awarded the RPS Isserlis Scholarship to study in Berlin with Ludwig Quandt, first principal cello of the Berliner Philharmoniker.