[2] Cummings studied at the Royal Academy of Music (RAM), and was also a student of Gregor Piatigorsky.
He became principal cellist of the London Symphony Orchestra (LSO) in 1969[3] and held the post for 24 years, until 1993.
[4] After his departure from the LSO, Cummings taught at the RAM, the Royal Welsh College of Music & Drama and the Oundle School.
He was a founder member of the London Virtuosi Chamber Ensemble.
His recordings include the 2004 album The British Cello Phenomenon.