That was in 2019, at one of the most legendary venues worldwide: the Concertgebouw in Amsterdam. Stravinsky's Pulcinella Suite was the show opener, followed by compositions by Beethoven and de Falla. It was an evening of firsts: I had never played the Suite before, my first time at the Concertgebouw and my first time playing with the MCO. I was very nervous, but all went well.
Can you tell us something about your instrument?
I play the oboe. It's the perfect instrument for love declarations. It can create a sound that will go straight to the heart.
What is the most difficult part of your job?
You must already suspect the answer, coming from an oboist: it's the reeds. We are extremely dependent on nature. Because we are constantly in motion, we are facing challenges regularly.
If you would play a different instrument, what would it be?
I think I would choose the viola. It's a totally different role in the ensemble compared to the oboe. I would be a violist and only play string quartets.
Your most inspiring composer?
Gustav Mahler, and not just because the orchestra carries his name!
What would you do if you weren't a musician?
I would learn how to cook. Cooking is an art just like music, they are very similar. The smallest nuances can change the flavour and aroma of a whole dish or piece of music.
What are your Desert Island Discs?
Vladimir Horowitz - The Moscow Concert "Horowitz in Moscow" 1986.
