Peter learnt from Zillah Castle, before becoming a member of the NZSO Schola Musica, studying with NZSO Principal Viola Emeritus, Vyvyan Yendoll. He is also a graduate of the Cologne Music Academy, where his course of study included tuition from professor of viola, Rainer Moog and members of the Amadeus String Quartet.
Over the years Peter has played in the NZSO Chamber Orchestra, New Zealand String Quartet, the New Zealand Soloists, Nevine String Quartet and the Amazon Trio. He also works regularly with his sister, concert accompanist Mary Barber, and is a viola tutor at the New Zealand Music School. Peter plays a viola made in the early ’70’s by Otto Erdesz.
Peter also enjoys choral singing and has sung in Cantoris, Bel Canto and Nota Bene.