Alison Martin has been principal Harp of ENO for 30 years.

She is also harpist with the orchestra of the Age of Enlightenment, and Opera coach at the Royal Academy of Music. She enjoys teaching the younger generation and nurturing talent.

When did you join?
I joined the orchestra when I was 27.

Favourite ENO opera?
Any Wagner, Janacek’s Jenufa, Debussy’s Pelléas and Mélisande, and Verdi’s A Masked Ball.

Best ENO moment?
The orchestra winning the Olivier Award.

How did you start?
I started playing at school and then changed at college from piano accompaniment to harp.

Passion outside of opera?
Bach, roses, dogs and walking.