We launched our series, entitled “Quarantine Minutes,” so as not to lose touch with one another even during these difficult times. We will speak with our musicians to hear how they are 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 our conversation with violinist Antónia Bodó.
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?
Everyone is in a difficult spot during this time of quarantine. It is important to preserve our mental and physical health, and to maintain our enthusiasm for the things of the world. I think it is wonderful that we are still able to listen to concerts online and to take virtual museum tours. There is so much beautiful music available on the internet; I now have time to listen to and enjoy these.
What do you do in the time you otherwise would have spent with the orchestra? With whom do you make music at home, and how?
We are spending this strange period in the countryside. I am fortunate in that I can practice at any time, and because both of my daughters play an instrument, we can make music at home, together. For instance, with my older daughter, we are learning Bach’s Concerto for Two Violins in D minor. It is wonderful music and it is an amazing experience to play it together. With my younger daughter, we pass the time with flute and violin duets.
Have you learned anything new during the quarantine? Have you perhaps picked up any new habits?
It is important to keep up my skills, so I also play études; there is also time for some thorough scale practice, which I don’t always have time for on regular days. My new habit is to get up a little later.
What do you miss the most right now?
The time spent with friends; getting coffee together; and, of course, the orchestra and my colleagues. I hope we can resume making music together soon.
What do you like about the quarantine?
The quarantine allows you to set your own schedule: you can work on something when you feel like it and have the inspiration for it. There are fewer set programs that you must accommodate. Of course, online instruction at my daughters’ schools also gives me things to do; I try to help them. But, depending on the weather, we try to schedule learning activities for the cooler, cloudier days.
Is there anything in your life for which you never had time before, but always wanted to do - and now you’ve been able to try it?
Gardening is a new activity which I now have time and the opportunity for. I take advantage of it, because this is good for the body and the soul. I also have more time for movies and reading.
I hope everyone will find the stamina in this time, and I hope we will be back with wonderful orchestral concerts very soon, to please our audiences.
Tune in to our Quarantine soirées each night! Visit our website and Facebook page every evening from 7:45 p.m. CEST. If you would like to support our series, we would appreciate it very much.
