As the Christmas season approaches, those who would like to add a little classical music to the festive feel on the Costa del Sol are in for a treat with two enchanting concerts by the Collegium Musicum Costa del Sol orchestra. Featuring Vivaldi’s evocative Winter concerto from The Four Seasons and the dazzling, technically demanding Carmen Fantasia by Pablo de Sarasate, these performances will fill you with the ambiance of festive cheer. Euro Weekly News sat down with Geoffrey Silver, the accomplished British violinist who’s joining the orchestra for these special concerts, to discuss his background, inspirations, and what audiences can expect.
EWN: So, how did you come to be on the Costa del Sol for these concerts? When did your connection to the area begin?
Geoffrey Silver: Well, I used to come to Marbella on all my childhood summer holidays, so I have an affinity and love for the area. It’s like coming home in a way. Sunny memories and all!
Geoffrey finds inspiration close to home
EWN: What inspired you to start playing and making music in the first place?
Geoffrey Silver: My father played the violin and was a huge inspiration to me growing up. I’d see him play at home and perform regularly throughout my childhood. My four-year-old brain thought it would be a cool thing to do – and here I am!
EWN: Where did you study? It sounds like it was quite a journey.
Geoffrey Silver: I always had outside teachers, with a lot of additional help at home. When I was in my mid-teens, I was fortunate enough to be accepted by the National Youth Orchestra of Great Britain, which gave me another level of musical training and the chance to perform with a handful of the greatest conductors of the day. It was my greatest privilege to lead this orchestra for two years, and to this day, it’s still one of the things I look back on with the greatest gratitude and pride.
Practice makes “aha” moment
EWN: Practice is such a big part of a musician’s life. What do you like most about it?
Geoffrey Silver: Not much, but nailing something finally brings a certain satisfaction! It’s that ‘aha’ moment that keeps you going.
EWN: And how much practice do you squeeze in a day?
Geoffrey Silver: Ahem… not enough. A couple of hours if I have important things coming up, but it’s difficult to fit in while I have a lot of competing work priorities. I’m also a dad of two girls – 12 and 14 – and that’s definitely full-on!
EWN: Looking ahead, any idea where or what you see yourself doing in the next years and future?
Geoffrey Silver: Similar to now, I would imagine. Steady as she goes, with more music and family adventures.
EWN: What’s your favourite piece to perform, and why?
Geoffrey Silver: I couldn’t possibly pick out any one thing, as the repertoire is vast, whether it be solo or orchestral. Whatever I’m working on at the time is probably the boring answer, but it’s true!
EWN: Can you share a memorable performance experience with us?
Geoffrey Silver: Maybe the three recent concerts over the last year or two with Lang Lang, which were exquisite. However, I have to say some of my most memorable experiences have also been as an audience member. I’ve been lucky enough to both watch and perform with the likes of Mstislav Rostropovich, Pinchas Zukerman, Placido Domingo, and many other great artists over the years, and these experiences would also have to be an absolute highlight.
Connection with audience – Think about the good things in life
EWN: How do you connect with your audience when performing?
Geoffrey Silver: If I can convey a sense of love for the music I’m performing, then I’ve hopefully succeeded in making a connection. As an audience member, the greatest pleasure I feel is when the joie de vivre of the performer comes through. At the risk of mentioning Itzhak Perlman again, I think he has always conveyed this in abundance. He once said in an interview that he thinks about pizza when he performs, so this joy can take many forms!
Credit: CM
The Costa del Sol concerts
The twin concerts offer two distinct opportunities to experience the musical magic. The first performance takes place on Sunday, December 14, at 7.30pm at the elegant IPV Palace & Spa Hotel in Fuengirola. Tickets are priced at €15, with complimentary entry for under 16s. You can purchase them in advance from the IPV Palace Hotel, Lepanto Café in Fuengirola on the main street, or directly from members of Collegium Musicum. They’ll also be on sale at the door from 7pm, or you can email info@colmus.org to get yours.
The second concert will be held on Tuesday, December 16, at 8.30pm in the stunning setting of the Church of the Encarnación in Marbella. This one’s dedicated to supporting the charities run by the Church, and entry is free, though a kind donation will be requested from attendees at the close of the performance to benefit these worthy causes. Don’t miss the chance to begin your Christmas celebrations with a special night of live music and festive cheer.