Following our March 8th unveiling of our Final Four Music Director Candidates, we’ve embarked on a four-week journey to acquaint ourselves with each candidate individually. All were posed with the same three questions. We hope you’ll enjoy reading their replies and gain a deeper insight into their personalities. This third week, we will spotlight Alexandra Arrieche.
- What do you love most about conducting?
I believe music is more than a universal language. It possesses a healing power and brings people together despite generations and backgrounds. One of the key aspects of my job is to invite individuals to listen to each other and create a space where everyone’s voice is heard and valued. This is one of the things I love most about conducting. It gives me the opportunity to connect with people in a more meaningful way, to build relationships, and to share experiences.
- What inspired you to pursue a career in conducting?
Making music with my friends back in Brazil was what gave me the impetus to dream about being a conductor. Then, when I moved to the United States, having the opportunity to have Marin Alsop as my mentor had a huge impact on my career and of my development as a conductor.
- Can you share a memorable or unexpected moment you’ve experienced while conducting?
In 2018 I was guest conducting in Mexico City. The main piece on the program was Sheherazade as they are celebrating International Women’s Day. At the end of the Sunday matinee concert, typically a time when parents bring their children, I was returning to the stage for the second round of applause when I noticed a beautiful young girl running down the aisle. She made her way directly to the stage to greet me and thank me for the concert. She had the biggest smile on her face and the brightest eyes. Her excitement was so contagious! Afterward, I heard that was the first time a kid had ever done that. This moment means a lot to me, particularly as a female conductor from Latin America. Today I think if each concert I conduct I can inspire such excitement in just one child, then my mission is truly fulfilled.