‘A Classical Note’ is 8 quick Questions with Wellington Classical Musicians & Composers.

A chance for us to catch up with people & see what they’re up to, or introduce you to a new musician/band and their music.

Today’s guest is NZSO violin player Yuka Eguchi.

Who are you? Please tell us a bit about you and your background in music:
I am a violin player and an assistant concertmaster of New Zealand Symphony Orchestra. I graduated from Toho high school in Tokyo, and Indiana University in US. I won 1st prize at the 55th Japan Music Competition, and in 1993 3rd prize at the Paganini International violin competition.

What pieces of music have you been working on or playing lately?
I have been working on Elgar’s Enigma Variations. And will soon practice Star Wars!!!!!

Do you have any favourite pieces of music you enjoy playing? What’s your favourite music related book?
Music: Each time when I have a concert, the program pieces are my favorite.
Book: Song of the Birds by Pablo Casals.

Do you have any favourite composers? Can you recommend any NZ composers whose work you like?
Salina Fisher.
Tabea Squire.

What were the 3 most influential pieces of music to you growing up?
Sarasate ; Zigeunerweisen (Wiki/YouTube)
Berg ; violin concerto (Wiki/YouTube)
Wagner ; Siegfried Idyll (Wiki/Library Collection/YouTube)

Where is the best place people can follow you & find your music?
MFC

What are your favourite venues in NZ to play in?
Auckland Town Hall

Where/when is your next performance?
STAR WARS: The Empire Strikes Back in Concert – Wellington.