Philippa grew up and went to school in Berkhamsted. She studied the 'cello at the Royal Academy of Music after which she was offered a position in the City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra under the conductorship of Simon Rattle. After four years she returned to London to work as a member of the Orchestra of the Royal Opera House at Covent Garden. She has since remained a freelance player. She is Principal ‘Cello with the Bridgewater Sinfonia.