How do you listen to music most often?
I use the good quality audio system that I have in my house.
What was the last piece of music you bought?
Bruckner’s 9th Symphony with Berliner Philharmoniker and Sir Simon Rattle.
What’s your musical guilty pleasure?
I do not know such a term – I think there cannot be a guilty feeling by any contact with music.
If you found yourself with six months free to learn a new instrument, what would you choose?
I would try to improve my piano playing.
Is applauding between movements acceptable?
It depends on the situation. Sometimes it may be really disturbing, but on the other hand it represents a valuable reaction of listeners, and that’s why it should be accepted. We know, that in the past it was a common practice. I would say, in this matter, a non-militant approach is definitely advisable.
What single thing would improve the format of the classical concert?
Fantasy and courage of musicians and promoters.
What’s been your most memorable live music experience as an audience member?
Mahler’s Second Symphony with maestro Rafael Kubelik at the Edinburgh festival when I was 19 years old.
What was the first ever record you bought?
I don’t remember!
Do you enjoy musicals? Do you have a favourite?
Yes, always, when staying in New York I try to visit some Broadway shows, the classic old ones are the best. I remember an excellent version of The Cage of Fools.
How many recordings of the Goldberg Variations do you own? Do you have a favourite?
I am not aware of the number, I am not good at statistics! I know I was mesmerised by the Glenn Gould version.
Which conductor of yesteryear do you most wish you could have worked with?
Which non-classical musician would you love to work with?
Imagine you’re a festival director here in London with unlimited resources. What would you programme – or commission – for your opening event?
I would try to commission a work dedicated to the elimination of wars, atrocities and every kind of hatred – a piece of universal significance, inviting all people into the realm of love.
Jiří Bělohlávek and the Czech Philharmonic tour the UK from 18-24 April with concerts in Leeds, Edinburgh, Nottingham, Bristol, Basingstoke, Birmingham and Saffron Walden.
