Josh Mountford

Josh is a highly accomplished cellist with a deep passion for orchestral playing. His musical journey began at a young age, becoming a member of numerous youth orchestras. He has worked with professional orchestras such as the Piccadilly Symphony Orchestra, The Midland Sinfonia and Manchester Camerata through a PES scheme. In 2024, Josh became a member of the Paraorchestra. Currently a Master’s student at the Royal Academy of Music, Josh is learning with Professor Jo Cole. He previously graduated from the Royal Northern College of Music with a First Class (Hons) Bachelor of Music, studying with Professor Hannah Roberts. Before RNCM, he studied at Chetham’s School of Music. As a active chamber musician, Josh is involved with ensembles including the award-winning Bauhaus Trio and Petford Ensemble. He has performed at venues across England and Europe. Josh’s versatility is evident, performing in the Forever Elton tribute band on electric cello and keyboard, as well as featuring in many Film and television scores, working as a session musician. As the cellist of Fordante, an Arts Council England funded ensemble, Josh often performs a mix of film scores and classical works across the UK. Josh has received masterclasses from renowned cellists across the world, including Steve Doane, Milkós Perényi and Sung-Won Yang. Receiving many awards for his achievements, most recently Josh was awarded the Shirley Catterall Prize for excellence. Currently working and performing across London and England, Josh performed the Elgar Cello Concerto in April 2024, with the Gorton Philharmonic Orchestra. Josh currently plays on Luthier Robin Aitchison’s Montagnana replica Cello and is grateful for the multiple awards he has received towards this. Josh is a member of the Incorporated Society of Musicians (ISM)