17 Jun 2025
Meet violinist Peter Hanson - concertmaster of the English Baroque Soloists and Orchestre Révolutionnaire et Romantique
You’ve been performing with the Monteverdi Choir & Orchestras since the 1990s. Compared to other ensembles and concert settings you have performed in, what do you think sets the MCO apart?
The drive and determination behind the ORR is intoxicating. When I joined the orchestra as leader, I was thrilled to be experimenting with music. Previously I had been playing in the Academy of St Martin in the Fields under Sir Neville Mariner, along with my string quartet, The Hanson Quartet. This put me on a new trajectory.
Is there a defining moment in your musical journey that helped shape your path or perspective?
Being asked to lead the English Concert by Trevor Pinnock changed my outlook and gave me a new future.
You perform with both the English Baroque Soloists and the Orchestre Révolutionnaire et Romantique - how does your approach differ between these ensembles?
The EBS specialises in baroque music and early classical music, and the ORR is looking into romantic school (Beethoven to Debussy). So different instruments and bows are needed, as well as a different playing styles.
English Baroque Soloists performing in Musikverein, Vienna 2025 © Julia Wesely
As concertmaster, how do you typically prepare for a performance? Do you follow any personal routines or rituals?
I just try to concentrate on the stage issues; at what time the welcome speech happens, the walking on, the tuning and the bowing. Then I can focus on the music.
Looking back on your time with the MCO, is there a particular tour or project that stands out as especially meaningful?
Yes, the first time we played Berlioz’s Les Troyens in the Chatêlet Theatre in Paris, 2003
Repertoire-wise, are there any pieces - whether sacred, chamber, or symphonic - that feel especially close to your heart?
I love playing high quality music of any kind. The Beethoven Symphonies and many string quartets must be up there as my favourites. I have also really enjoyed playing on the soundtracks of many great films including Hans Zimmer's wonderful music for the film 'Interstellar' which was recorded in Temple Church, London.
Peter Hanson during rehearsals at Musikverein, Vienna 2025 © Julia Wesely
When you’re not performing or rehearsing, do you have any passions or hobbies outside of music?
I don’t really feel I have the time to dedicate to a hobby. I do enjoy my modest wine cellar contents from time to time.
Finally, what advice would you offer to young instrumentalists who are hoping to build a versatile career like yours in today’s musical landscape?
My advice to young musicians is to find the music you really love, get to know as much repertoire you can, look for different recordings and go to concerts as well. Find out about the wonderful history of music. If your enthusiasm comes from the music, then the instrument playing will have purpose and meaning. Don’t just learn an instrument just to be good at it!
