If you want to raise money for multiple sclerosis research by staging a recital, there can be no more appropriate venue than the Jacqueline du Pré Music Building, named after the famous cellist who was robbed of her career by the disease. And that’s doubly true if you’re a cellist yourself, like 18-year-old Ghislaine McMullin, of Headington.

“My mum was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis when I was about eight years old,” Ghislaine explains. “Before I leave home, I really want to do something and raise some money for the MS Society: specifically to contribute towards the scientific research that goes into potential cures.”

Ghislaine has been playing the cello since she was six.

“I actually wanted to learn the violin, because my best friend also played the violin. But the waiting list at my school, St Ebbe’s Primary, was massive. So at my parents’ suggestion I started on the cello, and we hit it off really well: it was a quarter-size instrument, hired from the county music service. I think it was the best decision I’ve ever made.”

Ghislaine progressed through the Oxfordshire County Youth Orchestra and into the National Youth Orchestra, where she has just finished on a high, playing at the BBC Proms.

“It was electric, it was such a great atmosphere. I’ve played in three Proms, but this one was extra special because it was my last. You don’t quite realise how big that is until you’re on stage. I thought: ‘I’m never going to have this again.’”

That Ghislaine is no ordinary talent is evidenced by the fact that all three main London music academies have offered her scholarships. But instead she hopes to go to St John’s College, Cambridge — to read history.

“Touch wood, because my grades haven’t come through yet!” she laughs. “It isn’t just that you could have a freak accident and be unable to play any more, but you might decide in 30 years’ time that you want a completely different career. Also, I love history!”

There is no intention of giving up the cello, however — you don’t have to talk to Ghislaine for very long to discover that she practises with all the dedication of an Olympic athlete. She’s now studying with LSO principal cellist Tim Hugh, who will appear with her at the charity recital, which is on Tuesday at 7.30pm. Tickets on the door at the Jacqueline du Pré, or in advance from Blackwell’s Music Shop.