Clare O’Connell is a cellist and curator dedicated to developing contemporary repertoire through close collaboration with composers and imaginative concert programming. Her work explores the expressive possibilities of the cello across solo, chamber, and cross-genre contexts.

Her recordings include The Isolated Cellist, a collection of ancient and contemporary works for solo cello, and Light Flowing released by NMC Recordings. These projects reflect her ongoing commitment to championing new music and expanding the cello repertoire.

Clare is the founder and artistic director of the concert series Behind the Mirror, which presents innovative chamber programmes that bring together new commissions and existing repertoire in thoughtful and unexpected ways. Through performance, recording, and collaboration, she seeks to create spaces where audiences can encounter contemporary music as a vivid and engaging artistic experience.

"she has a deep understanding of the way the music works and a joy in the simple act of playing which illuminates everything - from the most complex to the most basic music put in front of her." Harvey Brough - composer, producer, arranger