Meet One of Our Finalists - Portia Bell

🎶✨ Meet Our Finalist: Portia Bell! ✨🎶

We’re excited to introduce Portia — one of our incredible finalists in the Dunedin Concerto Competition! We asked Portia about her journey with the cello, her connection to music, and her personal rituals before stepping on stage. Here’s what she shared:

🎻 What inspired you to learn your instrument?“I had been learning piano for years and wanted to take up an orchestral instrument. With my older sister playing violin, I was drawn to stringed instruments — but it was the mellow tone and versatility of the cello that really captured me. At the time, my parents often played The Piano Guys and classical music, and I loved the cello and piano combinations.”

🎶 Favourite composers & pieces?“Rachmaninoff’s Cello Sonata in E minor. It balances complexity with simplicity — its harmonies, melodies, and rich character draw me in every time.”

🌍 Dream collaboration?“I’d love to perform with American violinist Hilary Hahn.”

🎼 How do you feel about being a finalist?“I am incredibly honoured. It’s not just an opportunity to perform as a soloist, but to connect with an audience on a deeper level. Competitions like this push you to grow, and I’m so grateful for what I’ve learnt so far. I can’t wait to give everything I have in this performance alongside two talented pianists and an amazing orchestra.”

🎵 What will you be performing?“The first movement of Dvořák’s Cello Concerto in B minor, Op.104 — one of the most powerful, emotionally rich works in the cello repertoire. It’s a technical challenge, but more than that, it asks you to dig deep emotionally. It speaks to me personally, and it’s a privilege to share it.”

✨ Favourite moment in your piece?“There are so many beautiful, emotive moments — but my favourite is the chromatic-octave scale at the end of the development section. It’s a victorious, exhilarating moment where you feel the whole audience holding their breath with you.”

🎨 When you’re not playing music?“I love anything creative — painting, baking, and composing my own music.”

🎻 If your cello had a personality?“My cello is called Heidi. She’d be calm and patient — like an old friend who listens more than she speaks. She’s steady, soothing, and thoughtful — never in a hurry, always waiting for just the right moment to sing.”

🎭 Pre-performance ritual?“I like to lie on the floor, close my eyes, and visualise every movement I’m about to make in my performance. I remind myself how lucky I am to play the cello and how rewarding it is to share music with others.”

👏 We can’t wait to hear Portia’s beautiful Dvořák on stage! 🎶

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