Born in Zimbabwe, Janet began violin and piano lessons at the age of seven.

In 1984 Janet won a scholarship to the Royal Northern College of Music in Manchester, studying with Christopher Rowland, leader of the Fitzwilliam String Quartet, and Benedict Holland.

After graduating in 1988, Janet embarked on a freelance career, performing with many major orchestras, including the Royal Liverpool Philharmonic, the Scottish Chamber Orchestra, and Opera North.

In 1991, she joined the New Zealand Symphony Orchestra as Assistant Sub-Principal Second Violin.

Janet plays a fiddle by Derazay.