Home is …
I live with my brother and a friend in Peckham. The house is very musical. There’s always the sound of a cello, violin or guitar.
Where do you stay in London?
I stay at home. I’m often in my garden. I love being out here. It’s nice to have this space — we have a fig tree, an apple tree and a banana tree.
Where was your first flat?
I moved to London almost 10 years ago, as a student. I studied at the Royal Academy of Music and stayed in student halls in Marylebone.
What was your first job ?
I’ve always just been a cellist and have been performing since I was young. I’ve never had a proper job!
Where would you recommend for a first date?
There’s a place in Peckham called Hausu, which I love. It’s a great spot, super cool, with good plates of food and great drinks. It’s cosy.
Restaurants close too early in London — we should be more like New York. Let people stay out!
What’s the best meal you’ve had?
Probably Jikoni in Marylebone. I used to go all the time when I lived around there. I love that place, particularly the banana cake dessert. I’d finish [music] practice for the day and I’d go just for that. It’s indulgent, beautiful and delicious.
What would you do if you were Mayor for the day?
I’d give restaurants later licences so they could stay open for longer. Kitchens close too early in London — we should be more like New York. Let people stay out! I finish concerts at 10.30pm and always end up racing to a restaurant to get my order in before the kitchen shuts.
Who is the most iconic Londoner?
Bob Marley. He lived here for a time.
Where do you go and what do you do to have fun?
I’m quite centred around Peckham, in the summer especially. Bold Tendencies in Peckham Levels is great. If I’m in London, I head there on Wednesday nights.
Where do you exercise?
I play football a lot. I use an app called Footy Addicts — you just log in and find a game happening nearby. I’ll go as far as Brixton to play. I just try to avoid going in goal, as I have to protect my fingers. I’m a striker.
Who do you call when you want to have fun?
One of my best friends, Matt. He’s very much up for a night out. Wherever we go and whatever we do, we’ll have a good time.
What’s your biggest extravagance?
Clothes. I do like good clothes. Paul Smith, who is from Nottingham, my hometown, is a favourite.
What’s your London secret?
The Meeting House in Peckham. It’s a really cool space, great for working. And they do a superb lasagne. I’m a bit obsessed with it.
What’s the best thing a cabbie has ever said to you?
I got in with my cello once, and the cabbie told me he once drove Mstislav Rostropovich, the great Russian cellist. It was surprising and cool that he remembered. It made my day.
Who is your professional hero?
Cellist Steven Isserlis.
What’s your favourite work of art?
I like the changing residencies at the Serpentine — whatever is on during the summer.
As told to Josh Barrie
