Five Questions with... Julius Asal

What are five of your favourite records of all time (any genre allowed)?

This is a great question, but impossible to answer, as there are so many favourites. Additionally, the list of my favourite records is constantly evolving. I grew up listening to the Beaux Arts Trio and adored the recordings of Martha Argerich and Gidon Kremer. Later on, I discovered Michael Jackson, whose music I also greatly admire. Currently, I find myself listening frequently to: Shostakovich’s Symphony No. 10 performed by the fantastic Boston Symphony Orchestra under the baton of Andris Nelsons; Strauss’ Four Last Songs with Elisabeth Schwarzkopf; and my mentor Sir András Schiff’s incredible Janáček album. 

You may have heard the aphorism, "Tradition is not the worship of ashes, but the preservation of fire." What are your thoughts on the relationship of innovation and tradition in classical music?

I am convinced that we have a responsibility both to tradition and progress. From this, a wonderful symbiosis can emerge, propelling us forward and - especially in the case of classical music - maintaining a powerful foundation that these magnificent works of the great geniuses deserve.

Creating music can be both a solitary and a social activity. Can you tell us about the importance of community and/or collaboration in your work?

First of all, I believe that music originates within ourselves, whether we're listening to it or playing it ourselves. Our own balance and dialogue with ourselves are probably one of the essential foundations for collaborating with others. The sense of community, for example in chamber music, can ultimately be one of the most fulfilling, especially on stage.

Photo: Michael Reinicke

Which artist - dead or alive - would you most like to work with and why?

I admire many artists, but some of them stand out in a special way. I feel very privileged to have had the chance to meet Menahem Pressler a few years before his death and I’d give a lot to meet him again and continue listening to him talking about Schumann… 

Which work do you wish you had written yourself?

Good question. Probably countless works, but right now it might be Messiaen’s Vingt Regards.

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