BY DELIA BARTLE
Violinists Josef, Karla and Natasha Hanna are no strangers to music – or each other. The siblings, all under 23, participated for the first time in the Australian Youth Orchestra’s National Music Camp, and after the experience wrapped up this month they are preparing for the group’s February concert series.
So why do we love them? Well, Josef began playing violin at the age of 4, and is concertmaster of the Melbourne Youth Orchestra and its String Quartet. He’s performed in a masterclass with renowned conductor, teacher and instrumentalist Pinchas Zukerman, and was a 2014 finalist in the Melbourne Recital Centre Bach Competition.
Karla was a finalist in the same competition, and has been a member of the MYO since 2012. In the family spirit, Natasha is principal 2nd violin of the MYO, and also plays with the Australian National Academy of Music Orchestra. She attained her LMus in piano under the tutelage of Rita Reichmann.
After the three perform in the upcoming AYO series, Karla will join the orchestra on its international tour to Europe and China, and the AYO Chamber players in Hobart later this year.
We caught up with the talented siblings around their busy National Music Camp schedule to ask them what it was like growing up in a musical family, and their experience of AYO.
I understand you’re first time attendees at National Music Camp – what’s the experience been like?
NATASHA (22): Intense but also incredible!
JOSEF (18): It’s been such a great experience and I’ve learnt so much from it. Being around musicians who share my same passion for music everyday is something that you don’t get to do very often.
KARLA (20): It’s been an incredible experience meeting and working with amazing students, conductors and tutors. I’ve learnt so much in the last couple of weeks.
You and your siblings have all played in other ensembles, such as the Melbourne Youth Orchestra and ANAM orchestra. In what ways is the AYO experience different?
NATASHA: It’s different in that there are so many more tutors, conductors and students to work and perform with.
JOSEF: Well, the orchestra is a lot bigger than MYO so it’s just so great to be a part of it.
KARLA: There’s so much excitement and enthusiasm, and the standard is incredible!
What do you hope to gain through NMC?
NATASHA: Performing with other musicians in the orchestra and especially chamber music.
KARLA: I’m hoping to gain experience in both my chamber and orchestral playing, and I am looking forward to making lifelong connections.
Natasha, I understand you started playing at the age of 3 – why the violin? Are your parents musical?
NATASHA: My parents never played an instrument but always loved the violin and chose it for me.
Josef and Karla, I’ve read that you both picked up the violin because Natasha played it. What it is about the violin that you love so much? Do you play other instruments?
JOSEF: I love the violin because it’s so versatile. Whether you’re in a silly mood or a serious mood, you’ll always be able to find a colour to match it. I also play a little bit of guitar.
KARLA: The violin is like a voice, it can convey so many different emotions. I love the fact that I can express myself through my instrument.
What’s it like to have such musical siblings? Do you have the opportunity to work together at NMC – either in the same orchestra or chamber ensembles?
NATASHA: Being part of a musical family is lots of fun and also conducive to becoming a better musician as we can be critical of each other and also encourage each other. No, I’m not in any ensembles with my siblings.
JOSEF: Being in a musical family is just the best! If I ever need advice, musically or technically, I always have my sisters to help me out. Karla and I are in the same orchestra (Bishop). She’s actually just a desk ahead of me. She makes sure I don’t muck around!
KARLA: It’s awesome! We learn so much from each other and it’s really great to have so much support.
What’s been a particular career highlight to date?
NATASHA: Going on tour with Melbourne Chamber Orchestra in 2015.
JOSEF: Being concertmaster of MYO is definitely a highlight.
KARLA: Probably being accepted into ANAM.
What are your plans for the future?
NATASHA: Becoming a better musician.
JOSEF: The dream would be to someday play in a top orchestra around the world, but I’d also love to do some chamber/solo stuff.
KARLA: I would love to get a job in a professional chamber orchestra or symphony orchestra.
Visit www.ayo.com.au to keep up to date on the events and activities of the orchestra.
Image supplied.
