Richard Birchall

Richard joined the Philharmonia in 2011, and has held the no. 3 cello seat since 2017. He has appeared as Guest Principal cello with the Philharmonia, English Chamber Orchestra, Royal Philharmonic Concert Orchestra, Northern Sinfonia and Irish Chamber Orchestra, and as concertmaster of the London Cello Orchestra. Richard’s solo and chamber work has ranged from Wigmore Hall to the catwalk at London Fashion Week. He was a founder member of cello octet Cellophony and is cellist of the Minerva Piano Trio.

Richard is also a composer and arranger. Recent original works include a Clarinet Concerto for Michael Collins, released on BIS Records with the Philharmonia; two story pieces ‘Alice in Wonderland’ & ‘The Wind in the Willows’ for eight cellos and narrator, recorded and released by Cellophony Cello Octet with Simon Callow; and ‘Conundra’, a set of miniatures for cello and harp.

Richard’s great-uncle was Gareth Morris, Principal Flute of the Philharmonia from 1948-1972.

The No. 3 Cello Chair is currently available for endowment. Endowment opportunities at the Philharmonia offer supporters unique access and insights to our players. Find out more here.