We launched our series, entitled “Quarantine Minutes,” so as not to lose touch with one another even during these difficult times. We spoke with our musicians to hear how they’re dealing with their new circumstances in light of the coronavirus epidemic. How have their lives changed? Are they able to find anything positive in their situation? What music do they recommend for you? How have they transformed their ways of making music? We hope you enjoy hearing from violinist Zsolt Szefcsik.
What music would you recommend for our audiences while they are isolated at home? What do you listen to and what do you like to play to improve your mood?
I start out most mornings with a bit of exercise, and for this – although it may seem like a rather unusual choice of style – I prefer Baroque music most of all. Any music may help ease the feeling of isolation; personally, I enjoy listening to my own collection of music as well as tuning in to radio stations broadcasting classical music or jazz.
What do you do in the time you otherwise would have spent with the orchestra? Who do you make music with at home, and how?
I regularly perform at the orchestra’s Quarantine Soirées, but I also have more time now to focus on my children’s musical development: their instrument lessons continue just as before – except they are online now –, so I can help them practice and get ready for these.
Have you learned anything new during the quarantine? Have you perhaps picked up any new habits?
We’re trying to adapt to the new circumstances, but this does not stop me from thinking about the future and searching for new pieces which I can perform after the quarantine.
What do you miss the most right now?
Seeing my family and our friends in person, and of course performing in front of an audience.
What do you like about the quarantine?
I now have time for things at home which, under “normal circumstances,” I would feel were not the best use of my time. I’m referring to chores which one keeps putting off otherwise, saving them for later: sorting through things and tidying things up. For me, it’s now or never...
Is there anything in your life you never had time for before, but always wanted to do - and now you’ve been able to try?
A few weeks ago, when it started becoming clear that we would be spending a lot of time at home, we purchased a ping-pong table. We had wanted to get one for a long time, and it has proved to be a very good decision: it now brings the family together for some fun each afternoon.
Tune in to our Quarantine Soirées each night! Visit our website and Facebook page every evening from 7:45 p.m. If you would like to support our series, we would appreciate it very much.
