At what age did you begin playing a musical instrument?
I started playing the violin at age 6

At what age did you understand that you wish to pursue a musical career?
I grew up in a musical family, with a father who was a violinist at the Bolshoi Theater Orchestra, Moscaw. I studied in a school for gifted young musicians, which some of the greatest Russian soloists studied at. I used to participate in competitions as a child and in a way, I grew up with a career of a soloist.

Name an unforgettable moment with the IPO
This is my 25th season in the orchestra. There were so many unforgettable moments during this period. The most memorable moment was first when I got accepted to the orchestra. It was during the IPO 60th anniversary, it was so moving. Another great moment for me was when I was a soloist in Vivaldi’s concerto for four violins, with maestro Zubin Mehta. And lastly, the farewell festival from Zubin, and the last concert with him as our music director.

What do you love to do off-stage?
As a mother of two daughters, I really love cooking, trying new recipes and spoiling them.

Which kind of music would we find on your playlist?
I really love jazz.

What is the special significance of the IPO to you/Why did you want to be part of the IPO?
30 years ago, when we made an Aliyah, my father was accepted to the IPO. A few years later, I tried my luck in getting in as well, to become a part of the IPO’s family. It was very important for me to prove to my father that I’m capable to be in such a prestigious orchestra, and to make him proud after all those years he gave so much to me. I was lucky, we both worked at the orchestra and sat together in the same stand for 20 years.

Did you acquire any new skills during the pandemic?
I have had an accident during the pandemic. I broke my leg and had to go through a very complicated surgery. It was a challenging period, I had to relearn how to walk again. I’m still learning it and trying my best to get back in shape.

How can we keep classical music and live performances relevant in the digital era?
I’d recommend to have new concepts, for example collaborations of classical music and projecting videos at the same time. An opportunity to attract younger audience with a lighter kind of classical music and maybe even some explanations during the performance.