Jennifer Clark (20), who lives in Dunellan Road, recently travelled to Norway to take part in Stavanger2008: Open Port, which is the Norwegian city's vibrant programme of activities in celebration of its cultural status which it also shares this year with Liverpool.

The former Douglas Academy pupil was able to take part in the celebrations afterbeing selected to perform in the critically acclaimed chamber orchestra Camerata Scotland.

As part of this inspiring young ensemble, Jennifer gave four concerts in Norway, including a collaborative event with the Norwegian National Youth Orchestra.

Internationally celebrated British conductor Christopher Adey led the orchestra in a colourful repertoire, which included Moeran's exuberant and lyrical Sinfonietta as well as the atmospheric Two Pieces for Small Orchestra by Delius.

Jennifer, who currently studies French and Russian at Edinburgh University, said: "It was really great to visit Norway and take part in the event and I especially liked working with the Norwegian National Youth Orchestra as they were all really experienced and friendly.

"I would say that playing at this event is similar to others I have done in Scotland but it seems over there that a lot of the concerts are highly attended whereas here they are sometimes half full."

Jennifer began learning the violin when she was in Primary 4 at Clober Primary School in Milngavie.

Having achieved her Grade 8 just before finishing high school, Jennifer has maintained her ability by practicing and joining the National Youth Orchestra Scotland.

She said: "When I left school I knew I did not really want to do a music course as it wasn't my intention to make a career out of music but at the same time I just can't imagine my life without music.

"I would urge anyone who is learning to stick with it as it is not always easy especially when you are at school but in the end it is worth it."

Jennifer is now preparing to head off for a year abroad when she will spend six months in Paris, France and the remaining six months in St Petersburg, Russia, but she insists that she will still keep playing.
She said: "I plan to keep practicing and then see if there is anything I can get involved in when I am there."