The Carducci Quartet perform the complete Shostakovich Quartet Cycle in Bantry House, Bantry, Co. Cork from 24 to 26 October. We asked Eoin Schmidt-Martin of the quartet the BIG questions . . .
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Tell us three things about yourself . . .
I am the viola player in the Carducci Quartet
My wife Michelle is also in the quartet - we're actually made up of two married couples.
Michelle and I grew up in Cork, live in the UK but get to perform together all over the world!
How would you describe your music?
Everything from classical music up to brand new pieces, including contemporary classical works, folk, pop, jazz and rock!
Who are your musical inspirations?
I’ve drawn inspiration from so many sources - former teachers and great classical musicians past and present. I have also been inspired by legendary performers in all genres of music throughout my life.
What was the first gig you ever went to?
Two answers. First classical music concert memories would be going to see the RTÉ Vanbrugh Quartet in Cork as a student. But I also remember going to see Michael Jackson in Páirc Uí Chaoimh in 1988!
What was the first record you ever bought?
I was big into grunge when I was young so I would guess either a tape by Nirvana or Pearl Jam.
What’s your favourite song right now?
What else but Golden from K-Pop Demon Hunters (I actually recorded on the songs for that film in London last year but had no idea at the time what a huge hit it was going to be!!!).
Favourite lyric of all time?
Haha I’m so terrible at remembering lyrics! So, I’m going to say "You’re just too good to be true, can’t take my eyes off of you", which was played for the first dance at Michelle and my wedding.
If you could only listen to one song for the rest of your life, what would it be?
I feel like that’s a trick question. If listened to one song for the rest of my life I would definitely end up hating it! I listen to a lot of film music so maybe something by Hans Zimmer or Max Richter?
Where can people find your music/more information?
On our website and you can also find us on Facebook and Instagram.
Alan Corr
