Septura welcomes Helen Vollam
Septura today announces Helen Vollam as the newest member of the group. Widely recognised as one of the finest trombone players of her generation, Helen is Principal Trombone of the BBC Symphony Orchestra, and also a member of the Chamber Orchestra of Europe and Bones Apart Trombone Quartet. She is the first woman to have been appointed Principal Trombone of a London orchestra.
Helen joins Septura as part of the regeneration of the group’s membership following the decisions of Artistic Directors Matthew Knight and Simon Cox to step back from playing. For over a decade they have managed the group, as well as arranging Septura’s repertoire, performing in concerts across the globe, and playing on all 9 of Septura’s recordings for Naxos. Matthew will continue in his role as Artistic Director, further developing Septura’s pioneering project to redefine the classical brass ensemble, while Simon takes up the position of Chair of Septura’s Board. Helen Vollam joins Septura’s unrivalled team of tenor trombonists, alongside Matthew Gee (Principal, RPO) and Peter Moore (soloist, formerly Principal, LSO).
Helen has already performed as a guest with Septura many times, including at the Wigmore Hall in 2024 for the group’s 10thanniversary concert, which featured the premiere of Roxanna Panufnik’s Seven Heavens. Her first project as a member will be a major US tour in October 2025 during which Septura will perform 8 concerts across four states.
Artistic Director Matthew Knight said:
“We are delighted to welcome Helen to Septura. Our mission to reinvent the brass ensemble requires nothing less than the most virtuosic brass players that the UK has to offer, and Helen’s artistry, technical mastery and deep musical understanding make her the perfect fit. She is a great addition to an illustrious team that is uniquely positioned to promote our passion for brass chamber music.”
Helen Vollam said:
“I have long admired Septura’s groundbreaking work on the concert platform and on record, and to join the group as a member is a great honour. I regularly work with all of the members in London’s orchestral scene, but to make chamber music with these incredible musicians is something really special. I look forward to many concerts, tours and recordings over the years to come, as Septura works to create even more unique and compelling musical experiences for audiences around the world.”
