Welcome to our interview relay with musicians from the classical music scene! Today we have the pleasure of presenting Maria Ose. She works as a flutist and freelancer in Norway. Here she shares her thoughts on classical music and recommends upcoming concerts for both new and experienced concertgoers!
Name, instrument and profession?
Maria Ose, flute, substitute solo flute in TSO, studying master in Munich
What are you working on at the moment?
Mostly orchestral works! Next week we will have a French and German concert with Leif Ove Andsnes, it will be fun!
Most overrated composer or piece?
Oi, I don't have an answer here, I think the more I get to know the music the more I like it, so I don't think anyone is overrated.
And at the other end of the spectrum... what music should everyone really get to experience?
I love Beethoven and Mozart in orchestra, and as a live concert, everyone should experience a Mahler symphony in person, it's a great journey.
Your last major concert experience - what made it so special?
The biggest last one was Mahler 9 with the BFO, because this is such incredibly fine and special music for me, with lots of beautiful flute things. Everyone was so incredibly in the moment and it was clear that everyone was affected by the sometimes heavy music, it was special.
Can you remember a single event or experience that made you want to become a musician?
It's always been there, as my mom and dad are both musicians. We've been going to concerts with my dad since we were babies.
Do you have any role models? Is there anyone who has been particularly motivating or inspiring for you?
Right now one of them is Clara Andrada, who is a flautist in the Chamber Orchestra of Europe, among others. She has an incredible understanding and playfulness towards music, which I will take with me.
Do you have any advice for “new listeners” who are curious about classical music and don't go to concerts very often?
Just do it! It's completely normal to feel a bit tired or worn out, there are a lot of impressions on top of an otherwise long day, so don't be intimidated or think that it's not for you if you feel that way, haha. And then just enjoy the rest of it😍
What misconceptions do you think people have about classical music or musicians who perform it?
That it's rigid and inaccessible and that you have to know a lot in advance, when it's really just about experiences between people. Music is accessible anyway, because it's about emotions!
Concert attire: Dressed up or casual?
Casual, but a little dressed up
Clapping between movements: for or against?
For!!! (Where the movement calls for it)
Any upcoming concerts you would recommend?
Next week with TSO and Leif Ove Andsnes! There are a lot of shorter works, including Mendelssohn, and Andsnes will play Fantasie for piano and orchestra by Debussy and Franck symphonic variations.
Finally, who would you challenge to take over the baton?
Ingrid Ose!