These qualities, combined with her musical talent and experience, would have made her hard to bypass during the appointment process for a new concertmaster just over a year ago. I enjoy it, especially the camaraderie and fine musicianship of my colleagues, even the politics within the organisation, although sometimes that's more enjoyable than others. But it's never dull. And I still prefer to play things by ear. Funding is a continual worry.
Money is always on everyone's minds when decisions are being made.
One of the constant questions we grapple with is what defines a national orchestra. If you lose that quality and inspiration then it's hard to maintain morale. Meetings, rehearsals, touring, her day is a busy one. Those family times, when the three of us are together, are precious. Through Barnados we found a very nice woman, the mother of three teenagers, to care for Jessye.