Lorraine McAslan trained in London and at the JuilliardSchool in New York. Her European debut with the Bern Symphony Orchestra was broadcast live on Swiss Radio. 'The Strad' magazine has called her “One of the most distinguished British violinists of her generation.” Her recording career began with sonatas by Elgar and Walton for A.S.V. Then came a highly praised Britten Concerto with the English Chamber Orchestra and Steuart Bedford, several sonata discs and recently Holst’s Song of the Night with the London Philharmonic Orchestra. Her recently released performance of the York Bowen violin concerto with the BBC Concert Orchestra on the Dutton label has received extensive critical praise. She plays 'Spring' from Vivaldi’s Four Seasons on London Octave’s CD 'Better Baroque'.
London Octave was founded by cellist Dietrich Bethge in 1988 from London's leading musicians, London Octave aims to approach the baroque and classical repertoire in a fresh and vital manner, often without a conductor, but principally for the players’ own enjoyment and the enjoyment of the audience. Through their regular London season at St Martin-in-the-Fields, the South Bank and on BBC Radio 3, London Octave has attracted a loyal following of concert goers who appreciate their vitality and virtuosity. This, coupled with their programmes based on major and accessible works, has established them as one of the leading chamber orchestras in Britain. The members, many of whom have distinguished individual careers, frequently take turns as soloists and leading musicians are often invited to work with the ensemble. During recent seasons, artists include John Lill, Nick van Bloss,William Bennett, Crispian Steele Perkins, Lorraine McAslan, Yvgeny Sudbin, James Bowman, The Tallis Chamber Choir. Dutton recently released a new CD by London Octave (conductor Kypros Markou) featuring works by the early 20th century American composers A.Foote and V.Herbert.
“full of sparkle and wit” Metro. “Superb delivery of Handel and Bach” Independent