Musical past and present in one brief sentence:

I have been a member of the Malta Philharmonic Orchestra (formerly the Manoel Theatre Orchestra) for 18 years.  I played the violin with the MPO and had been its sub-leader for 12 years until last year, when I decided to change to the viola section, where I am presently its principal.

How were you introduced to your instrument?
I wasn’t! I introduced it to myself - to my parents actually. My parents asked me whether I would like to play the piano like my brother but I told them that I would like to play the violin - at 5 years of age.

Who are some of your favourite composers, musicians and bands from the past and present?
Composers - Biber, Mozart, Brahms amongst many others... I believe that every composer has his own magical moments. Musicians – Izhak Perlman, Jacqueline du Pre, Martha Argerich, amongst others.  Bands - (modern) Queen, Michael Jackson and many more, once again.

Is there a particular song or musical passage that never fails to move you emotionally?
Mozart’s Requiem – from beginning to end.

What has been your most memorable musical experience?
Performing with a huge orchestra at the Concertgebouw (Amsterdam) at age 15, in front of a packed hall.

What’s a typical day like for you?
Work, lunch, food, nap, work/lessons, supper, bed!

How would you describe your perfect day?
A wintry day at home, cooking and relaxing with friends.

What would your friends say they appreciate the most about you?
Author’s note: Since Nadia refused to answer this question (modesty IS one of her qualities!), 3 of her good friends answered instead.  This is what they had to say about her: Her sense of fun, her constant smile, her natural musicianship, her willingness to help others, the fact that she’s so down to earth in spite of her being majorly talented, her humility and her ability to make her friends cry with laughter!

What is your most valued material possession?

My musical instruments

Who were you, or would you be nervous to meet?
A terrorist!

If you could blink your eyes and be in a favourite place right now, where would that place be?
Iguazu waterfalls Argentina
 

Is there something you would like to do more of in the future?
Enjoy the outside air more by walking in nice countryside places.

Outside of music, tell us about one of your favourite things to do.
Travel - holidays would be best!