My Musical Journey

From Le Havre, France to Oxfordshire, England

A Musical Beginning

My musical journey began in Le Havre, France, in a family steeped in music. My earliest memories are of singing French songs with my father before bed, a tradition that sparked a lifelong passion. When I was thirteen, my father gave me my first guitar, which opened up a new world of expression for me.

From a very young age, I had fallen in love with the rich, soulful melodies of Celtic music. By the age of fourteen, I had built a repertoire of traditional Celtic ballads with voice and guitar and was performing at weddings, concerts, and festivals like the 'Normandie Celtic Festival' and 'Automne Musical en Vallespir'. Eager to learn a new instrument, I took up the violin at fifteen and, a year later, was accepted into the Conservatoire de musique de Nîmes.

Valentine Roland - Early musical journey
Valentine Roland - Classical violin training

Classical Training & International Experience

For five years, I immersed myself in classical music studies, earning my Grade 8 ABRSM diploma with distinction. My musical world expanded as I performed with orchestras in different countries, including the Penang Symphony Orchestra in Malaysia. I also had the opportunity to join the traditional Irish folk group JigFiz's, with which I performed at various Celtic Bals and Saint Patrick's Day events.

These experiences broadened my musical horizons and deepened my appreciation for both classical precision and folk tradition. The combination of rigorous classical training with the emotional expression of Celtic music has shaped my unique musical identity.

A New Chapter in England

In 2024, I began a new chapter when I moved to Oxford with my Welsh husband, Adam. Today, I am continuing my classical violin studies while teaching violin to students across Oxfordshire and online. I also regularly perform my solo Celtic repertoire in churches and at events, and I am dedicated to my ongoing development as both a musician and music teacher.

My passion for music continues to evolve, combining the technical excellence of classical training with the heartfelt expression of Celtic traditions. Whether I'm teaching a student their first scales or performing at a local church, music remains the thread that connects all aspects of my life.

Explore My Violin Lessons
Valentine Roland - Current musical activities