Conversations with Billy Bob Thornton of GOLIATH
INTERVIEW
Jonas Kaufmann: Dark And Light Voice
Interview: Jack Spann, Vocalist And Multi-Instrumentalist
What do you consider to be the most important ideas and concepts to impart to aspiring musicians?
I would say, if you are an instrumentalist, you must practice at least four hours a day, for a period of 3-4 years, until you decide where your career may lie, or not lie. You need to find a support network of people whom you trust. If you’re a composer, you must formally compose 3-4 hours per day. That’s the rule- PLAY. But remember that “playing” an instrument is similar to “playing” when you are a child – you will get bruised, you will get hurt. It might even kill you. That’s why PRACTICE is essential, the more you PRACTICE the less likely you are to be hurt when you PLAY.
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Interview: David Pollock, Harpsichordist
What do you consider to be the most important ideas and concepts to impart to aspiring musicians?
Bach is reputed to have said ‘play the right notes in time’ and it is hard to disagree with that. Then I think the thing to aim for is a freedom where everything sounds inevitable and you have the feeling that it cannot be any other way, at least while the performance lasts.
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Interview: Jennifer Johnston, Mezzo-Soprano
Who or what inspired you to take up singing, and make it your career?
I’ve always sung, since I was a little girl, and I’ve always loved music. So singing as a job seemed like a natural step. However, I didn’t follow a logical route, as I first became a Barrister, after reading Law at Cambridge University. But the lure of singing was too great in the end, and so I accepted a place at the Royal College of Music and I’ve never looked back.
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Interview: Maite Aguirre, Pianist
What are the particular challenges/excitements of working with an orchestra/ensemble?
I think the biggest challenge is to be able to ignite in my players and singers the desire to make the best music they are capable of. The task of the conductor can’t be micromanaging musicians all the time. Of course, there is a bit of that during rehearsal, and it is necessary to have acute ears and be precise. But then on the stage we need to let go. And there is the challenge, to achieve control and freedom at the same time. Needless to say, this is also the most exciting part of the job!
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Interview: Cicilia Yudha, Pianist
What have been the greatest challenges of your career so far?
Many people still regard classical music as entertainment only. They think classical music is too serious and often puts them to sleep. My mission is not only to entertain but also to contribute positively to the community through music and music education.
What do you consider to be the most important ideas and concepts to impart to aspiring musicians?
While the printed score is in two-dimensional black and white, music is a living language. As musicians, we must bring the notes to life and express the music as a colorful, three-dimensional world.
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