Ilona Hepburn BMusRNCM, PGDip

Ilona Hepburn is a the founder of String Sounds, and a professional cellist with a diverse career spanning chamber music, orchestral work and solo performance. She studied at Chetham’s School of Music, The Royal Northern College of Music, and later at Chicago College of Performing arts.

Lucie Barnicoat BA PGCE

Lucie grew up in London and studied at Trinity College Junior Department before moving to Manchester to study violin at the RNCM, where she also gained a PGCE and specialist training in Dalcroze and Kodály. With over 25 years’ experience, she has taught violin and viola across the Northwest in schools and at RNCM Young Strings. Lucie teaches individuals, groups and ensembles, performs regularly, and is currently training as an accredited Suzuki teacher.

Lucy Hepburn, RCM student

Cellist Lucy Hepburn is currently studying at the Royal College of Music with Gemma Rosefield, having graduated from Chetham’s School of Music in 2024. A keen chamber musician, she has performed at leading venues including the Bridgewater Hall, Stoller Hall and the Houses of Parliament, as well as internationally in Oslo and Italy. Recent highlights include performing with the Brodsky Quartet and Manchester Camerata through their professional access scheme.