Julia Joyce

Julia has been Principal Viola of the New Zealand Symphony Orchestra since 2011.

Before taking up the appointment, Julia had a position in the Philharmonia Orchestra of London and toured regularly worldwide. During her time in London, she spent three years at the Guildhall School of Music and Drama, obtaining a Master of Music in 2008.

With her husband Andrew, she formed the Puertas Quartet in 2009 with Tom and Ellie Norris, recording two CDs for Atoll music and several tours of both the UK and New Zealand, as well as being semi-finalists at the Bordeaux international string quartet competition.

Julia enjoys playing chamber music with other musicians from the NZSO, as well as teaching and coaching young viola players in New Zealand and members of the National Youth Orchestra and taking their viola sectionals.

Julia has played guest principal for both the Sydney and Melbourne Symphony Orchestras.

In 2023 Julia and Andrew took a break from the NZSO to spend time in the UK with family and musical friends.  While in the UK, Julia was a Guest Principal with the Philharmonia Orchestra of London, along with other freelance performances.

She has four young daughters and is attempting to help them to learn the violin in her spare time!