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Beethoven and Stravinsky on violin

Interview with Amia Janicki

The 25-year-old Swiss-Austrian violinist Amia Janicki has won several international competitions. She is a former member of the Aurora Piano Quartet, the first piano quartet in residence at the Queen Elisabeth Music Chapel, and is now in residence with Augustin Dumay as a soloist. Accompanied by Dana Protopopescu, she performs a recital that gathers Beethoven and Stravinsky.

This article is part of

Bozar Next Generation: 25 Years

How do you feel a few days before your concert?

It is an honour to play at Bozar for the first time, as this venue has hosted many important figures in the music world. I am also grateful that I can continue to perform during the health crisis.

 

Present your programme to us.

We will play two contrasting works. On the one hand, Beethoven's 10th and last sonata for violin and piano, a work that is all about delicacy and intimacy. In my opinion, it contains one of the most beautiful slow movements in the violin and piano repertoire. 

We will completely change the atmosphere with Stravinsky's Divertimento, arranged by the violinist Samuel Dushkin according to the ballet Le baiser de la fée (The Fairy's Kiss). It is composed of four movements: Sinfonia, Danses suisses, Scherzo and Pas de deux. The typical characteristics of Stravinsky can be heard in it. 

What support do you receive from the Queen Elisabeth Music Chapel?

The Queen Elisabeth Music Chapel offers high quality teaching, with courses taught by great teachers, the opportunity to collaborate in chamber music with other young musicians and inspiring masters in residence. It is also a great place to work.

 

What are your first musical memories?

I was immersed in the world of music from a very young age, as my mother regularly used to make me listen to records and take me to concerts.

What is the most rewarding thing about being a musician?

When the public reveals that they were touched by my music.

 

What is your guilty pleasure?

I love my sleep.

 

What is your biggest dream?

I am lucky enough to have been able to play on a beautiful Niccolò Amati violin from 1645 for several years now. My biggest dream is to be able to acquire it!

© Chapelle Musicale Reine Elisabeth / Muziekkapel Koningin Elisabeth