Testimonials

"David is a teacher and inspirer of young people of rare energy and commitment. He constantly sets the highest standards and achieves these via exciting methodology and warm encouragement in equal measure. But he also understands individuals and adapts with subtlety and compassion to individual needs. Those lucky enough to be taught by David haven't just had a cello lesson or a chamber music coaching session, they've received an experience of true inspiration and energising that truly sets them afloat for a wonderful artistic experience."

"I have known David Burrowes as Principal Cello of the Phantom of the Opera Orchestra at Her Majesty's Theatre since appointing him to the role in 1998. He has repaid my belief in his ability a thousand times. His purity of tone and brilliant technique have made him a highly valued and hugely respected member of the orchestra."

"David has a lifetime's breadth of professional knowledge, expertise and practical understanding of all things cello-related, which makes him an incredible resource as a teacher, backed up by highest level playing as a soloist, chamber musician and principal cellist in orchestras. He has a huge library of solo and chamber cello repertoire to draw on, which is invaluable in workshop situations, and also has the rare ability (in musicians) to put together groups and efficiently deal with teaching/ performance project-related admin, making everything run smoothly. I cannot recommend him highly enough."

"David is an incredibly inspirational teacher. He is a true professional and really cares about his students, managing to bring out the music within each individual. His playing is superb but he manages to demonstrate how to reproduce sound and convey this so that his students are truly empowered. He gives his students the confidence to try and an ability to think for themselves that is quite invaluable. I can honestly say that teachers like this are rare. I recommend him without reservation."

"I have known David for many decades and can vouch for his honesty, reliability and - crucially - musicianship. He's an extremely committed and able player who has a vast range of musical experience, all of which makes him an outstanding teacher."

"I have valued David's leadership of the cello section of Southern Pro Musica in recent years very highly indeed. He is a hugely experienced and sensitive orchestral player and chamber musician, who brings to his performing not only fine technique but also an exciting musical imagination which is invaluable to all around him."

"I had the pleasure of taking cello lessons with David for three years during my time at university. David is patient, knowledgable and not just a fine cellist and teacher, but a great all-round musician. I would not be the cellist I am today without his help. And we are still in touch over 20 years later!"

"I worked regularly with David as the Principal Cellist of English Classical Players, a position he held for over 20 years. His approach has always been one of consummate professionalism and commitment: he is always ready to go any amount of extra distance to obtain the best possible results."

"I have worked with David for nearly 20 years at two different schools and he is the perfect example of professionalism - an outstanding performer on both cello and piano who works really well with his students. When coaching chamber groups, he is able to teach the finer details of performance. His level of dedication is amazing and he pushes for excellence from all students, no matter the level of performer."

"During the eight years I have had David as my teacher, he has been incredibly helpful for my development as a cellist and musician. His musicianship and sociability have allowed us to have fascinating musical discussions that both challenge and guide my interpretations of the music. He takes a keen interest in the development of his students, and is always willing to assist with any difficulties which may come up during practice, ensuring that my understanding of the music develops both during and outside lesson times."

"David is a fine musician and also a dedicated and focussed teacher, bringing out the best in our students and always giving them something to strive for."

"David has been a great mentor to me, helping me obtain a first in my music performance modules throughout my Tonmeister degree at the University of Surrey. He is very talented, passionate, and friendly to work with. I have since engineered on two recordings of his Cirrus Quartet, which in both cases were engaging and rewarding experiences!"