Patrick Roberts, violinist

Who or what inspired you to pursue a career in music?

I have always felt connected to music since I was born. Growing up, I had the opportunity of listening to so much music by so many great artists that being immersed in music simply formed a connection that gravitated to me and I took with me my entire life. Ever since I was 5 years old I always liked to be in the limelight and only would like to practice violin in front of friends or family members, so I always knew that I wanted to be on stage. It wasn’t until I was in my teenage years, when I started receiving many compliments and gratitude from audience members, that I knew that a career in music was possible. The reactions I received from the audience confirmed to me that it was my path and what I was born to do.

Who or what have been the most significant influences on your musical life and career?

I have been influenced by so many amazing artists but to name a few I would have to say Andre Rieu, Yanni, Sting, Hans Zimmer, David Garrett, Pink Floyd, Queen etc. I have always been inspired by artists that transport their audience somewhere entirely different by bringing them in to the artists world. I have always listened to so many different artists whilst studying music that I subconsciously developed a specific sonic signature that I always craved and this then was displayed in my own albums over the course of my career. You can actually hear subtle sounds and influences from different artists in a lot of my music as it’s what shaped me as a recording artist.

What have been the greatest challenges of your career so far?

By far the biggest challenge for me has always been getting my music out to the world and to as many people as possible. Being noticed can be a challenge; however, finding your own light is so important. I still remember when I was in my early 20’s I started trying to be like other artists in the way I approached music, and it wasn’t until I learnt to embrace who I am and my own point of difference that I found my infinite strengths and a lot of my challenges disappeared.

Of which performances/recordings are you most proud?

I’m very proud of all my album recordings as each album tells a story of my musical growth; however I feel Imagine & Fragile are by far the closest albums to my heart as I know just how much work went in to each of them especially Imagine being recorded during lock down. My most proudest performance would certainly have to be alongside my musical inspiration Sting at the beautiful Chateau de Chambord in front of nearly 20,000 people.

What do you do offstage that provides inspiration on stage?

I’m constantly experimenting with different sounds for future albums and finding inspiration in everything in life. I like to spend time outside in nature to nurture my creative ideas. When I’m home in my studio I relish the time to record my violin on a variety of musical genres and constantly be rewarded with many sounds which in turn give me different ideas.

As a musician, what is your definition of success?

Being at one with yourself as an artist and not looking back, only forward to the future. I think too many artists worry about what other artists are doing or what they did in the past and not about what they need to do in the future. Success is simply the feeling that you are being true to yourself whilst also making a true difference in the world with your music.

What advice would you give to young or aspiring musicians?

Never stop believing what you can achieve. The music industry has endless possibilities and all you need to do is work hard and stay focussed on your ultimate vision.

What’s the one thing we’re not talking about in the music industry which you really feel we should be?

I feel the music industry is constantly changing and there will always be challenges that we need to address. For one, the introduction of AI with music poses a threat to artists especially with piracy and limitation of revenue for song writers. I feel there will always be a struggle to maintain artistic authenticity.

What is your most treasured possession?

My health, mind & wellbeing. Although I would normally say my violin is my treasured possession however you can always play on another violin so to preserve your personality, health and wellbeing is by far the most important and treasured possession.

Patrick Roberts’ new album Fragile, featuring Sting and Tommy Emmanuel, is out now. Find out more