Viv has always followed a creative path, pretty much obsessed with the transformative and emotional effects of music and dance from childhood, rushing home from school to lie by the stereo and be transported by an eclectic world of sound including Rachmaninov and Prokofiev concertos, Barbara Streisand, musical theatre (particularly Sondheim), and later Steve Reich, Stevie Wonder and Prince.

After being told she would be too tall to be a ballerina, her piano took over, followed at age 11 by the flute. Zoom forward to a degree in Music (Nottingham), a post-grad year at Drama School and ten years as an actor. During these years Viv often composed for theatre, particularly for the Orange Tree, Richmond.

After a break (!) to have children Viv returned to music and began teaching flute and piano privately and at a London Prep School. Then a move to Devon with husband actor and psychologist Tim and their children opened up a new way of playing. A fortuitous meeting in 2009 with Billie Bottle, who played for her Sondheim cabaret trio introduced her to the flautist Jimmy Hastings (who played on Billie’s album ‘Message From’…) and she made the transition from classical to jazz and progressive rock flute. Jimmy Hastings has been an inspiration and influence, as has the folk rock flautist Ian Anderson.

Viv joined the band and has played, sung and recorded with Billie ever since, both in the ‘Multiple’ group and collaborating with Billie (lyrics and arranging) for the latest album and 2023 tour ‘Billie Bottle’s Temple of Shibboleth’. She also joined psychedelic folk-rock band Magic Bus in 2012 with whom she played various festivals in England, at the Liverpool Cavern and Wurtzburg, Germany. She created and recorded flute parts for two albums until parting ways in 2017. She then became flautist and backing vocalist for The Invisible Opera Company of Tibet, satellite band of the longstanding prog band Gong (2018-2023).

Solo projects, much joyous music development with Billie and session playing are inspired by the haven of the Devon countryside and the wonderful community of generous and amazing musicians who have also made the South-West their home.