Roland Wilson started his musical life as a trumpet-player at the age of eight. His interest in 16th- and 17th-century music led him to take up the cornetto, which he studied at the Koninklijke Konservatorium in Den Haag.

As a founding member and director of Musica Fiata he has performed at major festivals throughout Europe and has been a frequent guest with other well-known ensembles. He now concentrates his activities on researching performance practice, editing music from original sources, and directing Musica Fiata and La Capella Ducale. His interpretations both as a player and as a conductor are noted for combining historical accuracy with artistic inspiration.