Q and A
Question
Answer
Can you tell us a bit about you, and what you are up to these days?
I am a pianist and harpsichordist – I initially studied and worked in Austria, England and Australia. I went on to become a part-time Lecturer in Piano and Staff Accompanist at Elder Conservatorium for 35 years. I am now partly retired but still teaching for the Open Music Academy there. I have many gifted young private students most of whom also play other instruments and are involved in AYO.
I am a Federal Examiner for AMEB, Artistic Advisor for Recitals Australia, former president and current secretary of the Accompanists' Guild of SA. Cello was my second instrument at Melbourne University and I studied with John Kennedy. I am still playing regular recitals with former Sydney Opera House and ASO Concertmaster Ladislav Jasek at his retirement village!
I am a Federal Examiner for AMEB, Artistic Advisor for Recitals Australia, former president and current secretary of the Accompanists' Guild of SA. Cello was my second instrument at Melbourne University and I studied with John Kennedy. I am still playing regular recitals with former Sydney Opera House and ASO Concertmaster Ladislav Jasek at his retirement village!
What was a highlight of your time in AYO programs?
Chamber music pianist at National Music Camp.
What skills, musical and otherwise, did you take away from your time at AYO?
Collaborative sharing of music.
Why do you think AYO is important to the Australian cultural landscape?
Absolutely essential in a country that is mainly focused on sports and business – the human spirit needs balance. And at a time when warring is widespread, music is peace-maker!
What was one of the first pieces of music to inspire you?
Mozart’s Ave Verum.
What pieces would you share with people who want to discover more about orchestral music?
Mahler symphonies, Dvorak String Serenade.
Is there a piece of advice you received from a music teacher/mentor that has always stayed with you?
Music is a lifestyle, not just an occupation.
How or why did you choose your instrument?
Piano was the only instrument available at the first school.
What instrument would you play if you couldn’t play your primary instrument?
Cello.
Is there anything else you'd like to add?
Thanks to Patrick Brislan (French Horn, then Director of the Elder Conservatorium) for his support when, as a newcomer to Adelaide, I needed work, of which there was plenty – I enjoyed meeting most of the brass repertoire!
