In advance of his Melbourne Symphony Orchestra debut, James caught up with Australia’s Traveller Magazine to let them know ‘What travel has taught [him]’. Here’s a peek:
FORESIGHT
I was 19 when I first went to Vienna. I knew I wanted to be a conductor, and was very excited about the history of Vienna and its composers. I visited many music-related sites, including Mahler’s grave, and most importantly to me, the Vienna State Opera, where I took a backstage tour. This included a visit to see Mahler’s (one-time music director of the opera house) practice piano. It was all very emotional for me. Little did I realise that in less than a decade, I’d be conducting my debut of La Boheme for that very company.” -James in Traveller Magazine, full write-up here.
