Tabea Zimmermann (Lahr Germany 1966) is a contagious joy with a sincere smile. Although she lost her suitcase on the plane and had to ‘improvise her wardrobe’, the most important thing for Tabea was that her viola was with her. She reviewed her Festival commitments and shared her vision for music and musicians with IDEAL at her hotel.
He began playing the viola at the age of five. Why?
It was a family tradition. Three of my older siblings played cello, piano and violin. I thought to myself, why not me? There had never been a musician in my family before. It was my violin teacher who encouraged me to play. That was until today.
You are more than an interpreter.
-Yes. Because music transcends the instrument. This has enabled me to meet many people and enjoy sharing sound, management, and institutional projects. Music is my greatest teacher, and I hope to continue learning.
What does Hindemith really mean in your life?
First, a great composer with many facets. He was also a great musician from both an intellectual and performer perspective. His figure was misunderstood and he was also used by Nazis. My instrument can help me to relive his memory and bring back the same success he enjoyed in his time.
You have presented two completely different concerts at Festival.
Both were a pleasure. It was a privilege to meet the City of Granada Orchestra and perform the premiere of Mauricio Solto’s work at Carlos V. She has helped me to understand flamenco, even though I will need to see many more concerts.
What has been the experience with the OCG?
The musicians’ disposition and Lucas Macias the director were magnificent. It all sounded great.
-And Javier Perianes?
We have been playing together for many years. We have a wonderful musical friendship. We felt very comfortable working together since our first Bonn concert in 2017. This is not an exception.
-You were the Bonn Beethoven Festival’s artistic director. Is your 250th birthday one of the most culturally impacted by the pandemic?
We were extremely fortunate to have developed our series chamber concerts within the four weeks before the outbreak. It has been a shame, as there were so many programs that revolved around the Beethoven year. We hope that the virus will soon be eradicated. Music and culture have been greatly affected by this virus.