Andras Molnar
Trumpet
Andras Molnar studied music in Budapest Hungary in the renowned Franz Liszt Academy of Music. He played trumpet with the Hungarian Symphony, the Stuttgart Philharmoniker, the Hamilton Philharmonic, Calgary Philharmonic, Hannaford Street Siver Band, Aradia Baroque orchestra and the famous Tafelmusik orchestra of Toronto. Andras has travelled all over the world playing baroque trumpet including Europe, Asia, North and South America. Andras also enjoys teaching music.
What inspired you to pick up your instrument for the first time, and how has your journey evolved since then?
Always loved the sound of the trumpet
Can you share a memorable performance moment that still resonates with you today?
Verdi Requiem with the Guelph Symphony
How do you prepare mentally and physically before a big concert?
Practicing like my life depends on the next concert.
What is the most challenging piece of music you've ever performed, and what did you learn from the experience?
Handel Messiah and Bach Bb Mass on natural trumpet.
If you could perform in any concert hall around the world, which one would it be and why?
Franz Liszt concert hall, one of the best in the world, with the Guelph Symphony Orchestra
Who is your favorite composer, and what piece of theirs do you love playing the most?
Mozart Requiem
How do you balance the demands of practice and performance with your personal life?
Trumpet and my super nice wife are number one in my life.
What is one piece of advice you would give to aspiring musicians?
Listen to performances and practice, practice, practice!
Can you share a funny or unexpected backstage story from a past performance?
Played off stage trumpet for Beethoven Fidelio opera and somebody literally grabbed my instrument shouting
“ you can't play here -there is a show going on."
What role does collaboration play in your musical life, and how has it enriched your experiences?
Playing in my early years with accomplished musicians had a great impact on me.
What non-musical hobbies or interests do you have that influence or inspire your musicality?
Love travelling especially to Vienna, Budapest and Venice
If you could have a dinner party with any musician, living or deceased, who would they be and why?
I love talking to all musicians- they have such entertaining stories.
What is your favourite GSO memory? Playing with our great conductors
Besides your musical career, what other passions or occupations do you pursue? I love teaching music our young generation
What is your favourite food/book/movie/guilty pleasure? Cooking
If your favorite animal or pet could conduct the orchestra, how might their unique personality influence the music?
We can ask our lovely cat Bella to conduct one piece
What is the best thing about being a member of Guelph Symphony?
Level of playing and friendliness of the players
If you couldn’t be a musician, what would you want to do?
I would love to be an Italian race car driver