MetSO's Marianne Holzherr
Marianne Holzherr
Meet the MetSO Musician
What instrument(s) do you play with the MetSO?
Violin
Why do you play the violin?
I learnt it at school, and it’s quite small and versatile.
Do you play any other instruments?
Yes: Guitar, Bass Guitar and Keyboards (plus electric violin, but I’m not sure if that counts as another instrument)
What instrument would you secretly like to play?
Double Bass
How many years have you played with MetSO?
About 20 years
Do you have a different “Day Job” to support your musical life?
I’m an Intensive Care Nurse
Favourite 3 Symphonies?
It changes all the time, and at the moment I listen more to rock music, but some favourites are; Beethoven 5th, Dvorak New World, Mozart G minor
Favourite concerto?
Again, hard to say but I’ll say the Bach Double Violin Concerto.
Favourite 3 composers of all time?
Difficult to say. Maybe Bach, Corelli, Beethoven
Favourite MetSO moment?
When Chris Dragon got so emotional when he did his last concert with us.
Favourite World music track/genre?
Reggae
Favourite movie sound track?
Ocean’s 11
Favourite scale?
A, G or D Dorian
Best practice tip?
When the concert is getting near I make sure I listen to the pieces on YouTube and play along with a practice mute. That way I know how to fit in with the orchestra.
Worst instrument failure on stage?
My whole tail-piece falling off during a solo with the band. After that I just said “No more violin songs tonight!”
What was your most embarrassing / difficult moment on stage & how did you get through it?
Last year I forgot to stop when all the Scottish Fiddlers had finished the song, so I just finished the phrase and did a little bow.
Best tip for overcoming stage fright / performance nerves.
For jazz and rock, a glass of wine always helps.
What is your most memorable stage experience?
Co-leading WASO 2nd violins in the Rusty Orchestra last year.
What is your best tip for young players?
Orchestra is actually fun. Find a desk partner and enjoy it.
Describe yourself in 3 words.
A bit of a rebel.
Where do you like to listen to music?
Usually in the car, or sometimes at home.
Recently I got a new record player, so I can listen to my old vinyl records again.
What music most inspires you?
I love reggae rhythms. I love playing them on the bass.
What musicians inspire you most and why?
That changes constantly. At the moment I’m getting into some old Pink Floyd and Rolling Stones again.
What music will get you moving?
Anything with a good beat.
What makes you the happiest in your musical life?
When I play jazz, rock or blues, and it all comes together.