Janet Rutherford

Australian Hometown(s): Canberra & Hobart
Education: Elder Conservatorium, University of Adelaide

PROFESSIONAL BIOGRAPHY

Janet Rutherford (nee Gilby), originally from Canberra, completed her Bachelor of Music degree at the Elder Conservatorium of Music at the University of Adelaide in 1980 and an Honours year in 1981 studying with Simon Rowland-Jones. She was then appointed to the viola section of the Australian Opera and Ballet Orchestra (AOBO) in Sydney. After another year of study with Rowland-Jones, this time in London, she was appointed Associate – Principal Viola of the AOBO. In 1987 Janet was appointed Principal Viola of the Tasmanian Symphony Orchestra. She has appeared as soloist with the orchestra, including on CD – Richard Mills’ Concerto for Violin and Viola, and Waltz for Betz, and was also a member of the Tasmanian Symphony Chamber Players and the Trigon Ensemble(string trio).

In 2005 Janet performed the Bartok Viola concerto with the Melbourne Sinfonia in Melba Hall. Janet retired from the TSO at the end of 2015 but continues to enjoy teaching and freelancing. She also has a passion for playing lawn bowls. The instrument Janet plays is a Pellegrina viola made by David Rivinus in Oregon USA. It was made in 2003.

Last updated 2023