The name of my site, "The Paganini Violist", describes my main musical goal of being known for successfully playing difficult repertoire on the viola. Undertaking challenges is what I like to do, and succeeding in overcoming obstacles is so rewarding. So many violists seem to shy away from playing Paganini, and difficult repertoire in general, and I want to change this mindset through my playing and my results.
About me, and music:
I am a classical musician currently pursuing a Bachelor of Music degree at the New Zealand School of Music (Victoria University), in Wellington. I am majoring in the violin, taking the viola as a second instrument. Once I finish studying I will focus more on the viola - because I'm in my final year, I'm unable to switch while doing this degree. But I have come to realize that the viola is the instrument that strikes the right chords (musical pun intended) for me. I wrote about this decision on my other blog, here. It's quite a common thing for viola players to be "reformed violinists." Not saying that violinists are criminals - but for me it's definitely involved a change that's relevant to my character as well as the instrument itself. For me at this later stage of learning (in university), switching to viola was like what I'd imagine "coming out of the closet" would be like...being a "violinist" was quite ingrained in my personality and in the perceptions my friends and colleagues had of me, so my switch was at first very confusing for me, and surprising to them!
I also play the piano, have dabbled in percussion and bagpipes (just the chanter though!) and have just started to learn the trumpet. I've taken a course in conducting as well, and hope to do more of that in the future too.
While I'm studying, I earn my living by teaching violin and piano with two different music schools as well as privately, and really enjoy guiding people in their musical learning. And when I can, I play gigs with string duos, trios or quartets, play in operas or ballets, and do orchestral work.
Music is great for making people think, and can stimulate new ideas and new creativity. Music can move people to tears or anger, but also spark great energy as well, making people want to sing, dance, clap their hands, and jump for joy.
I aim to expand my own horizons in music, and therefore hope that eventually this blog will be relevant to non-classical musicians as well as classical musicians. (I've already had one successful public experience with improvising on the violin, not to mention a couple of other unsuccessful experiences!) All genres of music have value, and it's important that the genres can peacefully coexist - that way everyone has something that they like to listen to, and people can produce whatever takes their fancy!
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