Learning to play an instrument well and to be able to communicate with artistry is a multidimensional task which affects all areas of life. It requires depth of mind and soul, discipline in work and play, and a balance between tension and relaxation, both physically and mentally.
We live in a world full of new computers, new cars, new cell phones - a constant race for progress. And here we choose to play on instruments that are hundreds of years old, literally! In my work I often hear (or play) the same piece tens or even hundreds of times. Can it stay interesting? Yes it can and often does - listen for yourself, and keep listening, really listening - and you'll understand...
I play baroque violin with a beautiful instrument by Peter Wamsley. For later periods I play a violin by G.B. Guadagnini or sometimes another by J.B. Vuillaume - both are very special. Each instrument has its own unique personality. I seek the inherent character of an instrument and try to "coax" it out. I also have a selection of bows representing different periods. The bows have a huge influence in the sound production - this obvious fact gets neglected sometimes.