92. "It's not rocket science to be able to play the piccolo well" - Janet Richardson

"Piccolo playing is a piece of cake providing you have the diaphragm control, technique and ability to control your embouchure.."

In 'Talking Flutes' this week, Clare talks via Skype from her home in Hove, Sussex to Janet Richardson, Principal Piccolo of the Royal Scottish National Orchestra.

Janet has worked with orchestras throughout the country including BBC Symphony Orchestra, RPO, Philharmonia Orchestra, BBC Philharmonic Orchestra, CBSO, RLPO, BBCSSO, SCO, BSO, Scottish Opera. Her performances have included regular appearances on television, Radio 3, Classic FM and multiple CD recordings with RSNO and multiple concerto performances such as Vivaldi piccolo concerto with RSNO in 2005, Bach Brandenburg 4 in 2004 and Mozart flute and harp with Edinburgh Symphony Orchestra 1990. In addition to teaching on degree courses at the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland since 1992 Janet Richardson has delivered masterclasses around the UK and also in Europe.

With an upbringing in Oldham, close to Manchester, Janet began her flute studies with Trevor Wye while reading for her degree at University of Lancaster. Postgraduate study at RNCM led to piccolo tuition from Pat Morris which rapidly led to invitations from orchestras in the North West of England, Scotland and London. From this point her performing emphasis shifted to piccolo and to the post of Principal Piccolo with Royal Scottish National Orchestra in 1984. 

'Talking Flutes' and 'Talking Flutes Extra' are podcast productions by the TJ flute company.  For more information www.trevorjamesflutes.com