How many instruments do you play?

I began learning the viola at the age of 7, although I had an excellent violin teacher with a strong foundation in the Russian music school.

This exposure instilled in me a rigorous technique and discipline right from the start. But, I never played the violin. On occasion, I play the piano and I enjoy singing.

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Why did you choose the viola as your instrument?

I am fascinated by the unique ability to play with various shades of sound on a string instrument. The viola, in particular, possesses an exceptional expressive power with its gentle and sometimes dark melancholic tones. Among all musical instruments, the viola stands out as the one that most closely mirrors the nuances of the human voice.

 

Additionally, I find it philosophically intriguing, as it serves as a conduit for conveying emotions and narratives. The warm and resonant quality of its sound resonates with me, adding an extra layer of enchantment to my musical experience.

 

I'm also intrigued by the fact that the viola is a relatively unexplored instrument with much untapped potential in the history of music, especially as a solo instrument. It captivates me to think about the uncharted paths it may take in the future, contributing to its ongoing evolution in the rich tapestry of musical expression.

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Is here another instrument that captivates your interest?

Following the viola, my preferred instrument is undoubtedly the cello. In fact, I often use it as a point of reference in my playing as well. I am drawn to its natural and organic quality, the richness of its repertoire, and the finesse of its technique.

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What inspires you the most in your daily pursuit of making music?

Every day presents unique challenges and opportunities. Witnessing my growth as a musician and constantly striving to contribute something fresh to the world is highly motivating. Most importantly, I place great emphasis on enjoying the creative process, learning from fellow musicians, setting and achieving personal goals, all of which contribute to the fulfillment and joy derived from my musical journey.

The flexibility gained by adapting or enhancing something daily adds an extra layer of dynamism to this enriching experience.

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What aspect of music captivates you the most?

What I find most fascinating about music is the artistic and creative aspect of being able to express oneself and leave a unique mark on every stage. I enjoy blending and exploring different perspectives and personalities within the music, especially within the musical context of the time.

This capability to mix and seek various influences and styles creates an ever-evolving narrative in our work, a story that never concludes.

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This dynamic interplay adds an extra layer of complexity to our musical journey, making it a continuous exploration of creative possibilities while navigating the intricate relationships between performer, composer, and listener. It is within this intricate dance that the true essence and beauty of music unfold.

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What do you believe you could contribute uniquely to the world of music?

There are numerous musicians worldwide, and in both art and life, the learning process is perpetual, a two-way exchange between my students and me.

Music serves as an incredibly potent tool for personal growth and development. It possesses the ability to relax us, enhancing our focus for clearer decision-making, and it has the power to propel and transform us. Music also urges us to connect with each other and with ourselves and others on a deeper level.

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In the realm of the viola, I aspire to contribute by establishing a school where the viola is as a philosophical entity with its own narrative to share. I believe in delving into the realms of psychoanalysis, considering the importance of the unconscious when playing. Sometimes, we experience a sensation where it feels like our instrument is playing through us rather than the other way around. This exploration of the unconscious adds a profound layer to our musical expression, creating a space where the instrument becomes an extension of our inner selves.

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Which piece holds particular significance for you in the Viola repertoire?

I couldn't choose a single piece, as the viola repertoire, spanning from the Baroque era to the present day, has expanded significantly.

However, I find myself captivated by the works of composers such as Garth Knox, Ligeti, and even Hindemith. While my inclination used to lean more towards Romanticism, I now enjoy exploring different sounds, colors, and textures found in contemporary compositions.

This approach allows me to immerse myself in the diversity and innovation present in the current viola repertoire.

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What do you value most in a performance?

For me, music unfolds within the confines of space and time, emerging as a profound temporal experience that leaves a lingering silence in the soul.

The essence of paramount importance lies in the intricacies of time within the music and the profound impact of silence.

Personally, applause tends to be disruptive, unsettling the delicate equilibrium of the musical moment.

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