mary-nemet

About

Q&A

Question: Can you tell us a bit about you, and what you are up to these days?

Answer I have been playing violin from age five to 85 and have enjoyed every moment. Nowadays I still teach, mentor, play, listen to the great string performers, read, write reviews for the music journals, keep in touch with AYO buddies, and tend to my garden.

Question: What was a highlight of your time in AYO programs?

Answer Sibelius’ Second Symphony was the first orchestral piece I ever played, under the beady eye of our beloved Professor John Bishop at my very first Music Camp. I recall every note of its haunting music and it takes me back whenever I hear it.

Question: What skills, musical and otherwise, did you take away from your time at AYO?

Answer Over four successive Music Camps, AYO shaped my music-making for the rest of my career. Our wonderful tutors nurtured us in all ways, setting an example and high standard on which to embark on our own journey in music.

Question: What was your favourite piece or performance during your programs?

Answer There are too many favourite pieces to choose from, however a standout was Hephzibah Menuhin coming to play Beethoven Piano Concerto No.1 with AYO, or the Bishop Orchestra as it was then.

Question: Why do you think AYO is important to the Australian cultural landscape?

Answer It is often a starting point for young aspiring musicians to dedicate their lives to music and to launch their careers.

Question: How would you describe AYO in three words?

Answer Inspiring, exciting, brilliant!

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