What age did you begin playing a musical instrument?
I started playing the recorder at age 6, and the bassoon when I was 13 years old.

What age did you understand that you wish to pursue a musical career?
While studying at the Thelma Yellin Arts High School, close to turning 16 years old, I realized that this is what I aspire to do. Of course later on I had some passing thoughts and different stages along the way.

Name an unforgettable moment with the IPO
One of the most memorable moments I have experienced in the orchestra, not surprisingly, is the very first program I’ve played with the IPO. One day after winning my position, I was invited to sub for my predecessor in a program conducted by Zubin Mehta and the soloist was Daniel Barenboim. In those days I had a chance to spend a lot of time as a musician in the West Eastern Divan Orchestra with Barenboim, but I’ve never experienced Zubin Mehta from an orchestra player’s perspective. The dynamic between them both during rehearsals and concerts, as old friends and legendary performers, was just incredible. Unfortunately this was also the last time they performed together with our orchestra.

What do you love to do off stage?
Off stage, other than playing and teaching bassoon, I spend my free time with friends and exercising, usually running or surfing when possible. Every few years I love going abroad and traveling in nature with my spouse. I also like spending time playing the guitar and online chess.

Which kind of music would we find on your playlist?
My playlist is quite versatile and sometimes a little eclectic. It fluctuates between classical music, to any sort of jazz, British and American rock, electronic music, and Israeli rock.

What is the special significance of the IPO to you/Why did you want to be part of the IPO?
For me, the IPO is the highest quality organization of classical music in Israel.

Did you acquire any new skills during the pandemic?
During the first lockdown I tried to take advantage of my free time (and there was quite a lot…), to learn new things. I learned how to play the guitar from scratch, and I expanded my knowledge in French and Spanish. I also started studying a programming language called Python, and I took an online course in organic chemistry.