Alison Feuerwerker
Second Violin
As well as playing violin in the Guelph Symphony, I enjoy improvising and collaborating with other musicians in a variety of styles, especially while traveling. I have a great love for music from the African continent and am learning to play a variety of African instruments including the kora from West Africa and the mbira from Zimbabwe. I also play the djembe and enjoy facilitating drumming workshops and drum circles with participants of all ages, skill levels, and walks of life.
What inspired you to pick up your instrument for the first time, and how has your journey evolved since then?
When I was 11 I wanted to play the cello but didn't know how I would manage carrying it to and fro school. I decided the violin would be a better option and soon fell in love with it. I have been playing ever since.
Can you share a memorable performance moment that still resonates with you today?
Here's how I describe my most multicultural performance ever: "This Chinese/eastern European/ Canadian violinist once spent St Patrick's Day playing Irish fiddle tunes at a French bistro in Tanzania!"
How do you prepare mentally and physically before a big concert?
Before the first rehearsal my goal is to not only learn my own part but also to understand how it fits into the big picture. I try to listen to several different recordings and get to the point where I am living in the music and it has become part of me. Then rehearsal week and performance time becomes mostly about listening, living fully in each moment, and having a wonderful time!
What is the most challenging piece of music you've ever performed, and what did you learn from the experience?
One very challenging piece was Stravinsky's Rite of Spring, which the GSO performed a number of years ago. I learned to figure out "survival strategies" for dealing with very complex rhythms. I also learned that we could do something that at first felt impossible!
What is one piece of advice you would give to aspiring musicians?
Don't let anyone discourage you from being a musician if that is what you want to do!
What role does collaboration play in your musical life, and how has it enriched your experiences?
For me, playing music is all about collaboration. Music is meant to be played in community. One of the most wonderful aspects of playing in an orchestra is that we are all collaborating to create something powerful and beautiful, and when it works well the audience feels it too. I also have been fortunate to be able to play with musicians from a variety of countries and cultures, and am constantly learning.
What do you think is the most rewarding aspect of being part of an orchestra?
Really experiencing that whole is more than the sum of its parts. Creating something together that is beautiful and moves audiences.
Do you play another instrument or is there one you wished you could play?
I play djembe (a West African hand drum), kora (a West African instrument something like a harp), mbira (from Zimbabwe), piano (not well - though I played keyboards in a reggae band a few decades ago), and a bit of ukulele.
Besides your musical career, what other passions or occupations do you pursue?
I sometimes write memoir and creative non-fiction. I travel whenever possible, do a bit of gardening, and am committed to organizing for social justice and human rights.
Favourite travel destination or place to visit?
So far, everywhere I have been on the continent of Africa has been my favourite. I also love Ireland, Portugal, and France. But mostly I just love to travel!
What is the best thing about being a member of Guelph Symphony?
My colleagues! They are amazing musicians and lovely people. I also continue to be inspired by our music director, the guest conductors we have, and the many incredible soloists we get to play with.
If you couldn’t be a musician, what would you want to do?
Probably be a travel writer.