Gilly Challinor is a member of the Music in Action Board and a digital guru. Most recently she has started working for Jersey Overseas Aid and most people would describe her as having a heart of gold. Gilly plays the violin and the piano and recently returned to Jersey.
At what age did you start making music?
I think I was probably around 5 or 6 when I started piano lessons with my Grandmother. And shortly after I started the violin.
What do you love most about playing the violin?
I love playing in orchestras - there's something incredibly special about being a small part of a big, complicated, wonderful sound. I sometimes get to play with one of my sisters which makes me very happy.
Why does music matter to you?
Music was a huge part of my life growing up. It brought me such a sense of enjoyment and achievement, but it also brought me friendships and so many life skills that I wasn't aware of at the time. I saw how it could bring joy to people who were suffering when my sisters and I used to do mini-concerts for our neighbour who was suffering with Parkinsons. Now as an adult I realise the powerful benefits music has on our mental wellbeing, as well as the sense of belonging and community it brings, and that's why I'm drawn to Music In Action and its ambitious charitable aims.
Why did you join the MIA Board and what can we look forward to from you next in this role?
Because I get the opportunity to help a local charity to grow and spread the joy of music in Jersey.
Where are you from originally & what inspiration do you take from your current home?
I'm Jersey born and I'm inspired by the incredible young musicians and brilliant music teachers we have on the island. We are so lucky here.
What is your favourite place on earth?
I love the absolute wonder of places that don't remotely resemble, smell or feel like home, and I love discovering nature at its most beautiful. So I have many favourites: Kakadu in the Northern Territory of Australia, Marrakech in Morroco, Zanzibar, Rishikesh in India, Krabi in Thailand - to name a few. I'm looking forward to discovering more.
Who is your favourite composer?
Oh I hate this question - I'm terrible at knowing the names of composers. I'm going to go with Tchaikovsky because I love hearing and playing anything from Swan Lake - especially the Waltz.
What or who inspires you most?
I know this is probably a common answer, but to name anyone else would be untruthful - my wonderful Mother, Catherine.
If you hadn’t become a musician, what job would you have wanted to do?
I'm not! I work in overseas aid and previously providing digital services in the charity sector. I didn't go into music as a career because I felt that I couldn't compete with the incredible talent around. Looking back, that was a little short sighted of me - there are so many different career avenues for musicians - I think I would have enjoyed music technology and producing.
Which historical figure would you choose to have dinner with?
I'm going to say Emmeline Pankhurst. I'd love to hear what she thinks of the world today.
Gilly and her daughter playing together