Calling a Musician a Chameleon is a Compliment

He is head over ears in love with music, yet searching for unknown elements seems to occupy a large part of his mind. In recent years David Andre has taken part in a number of Pacific research projects. Once a plane he was piloting crashed, fragments floating miles down to the bottom. The pilot had spent 18 hours in the water until help arrived. The first thing he said when safely onboard was, "Too bad my orchestra has been without me for so long."

Journalist Valentyna Kuznetsova met with the maestro after a concert.

Q: What music do you prefer to listen to in your free time?

A: Whenever I have time to spare I enjoy silence.

Q: You seem to be in splendid shape. Does this have anything to do with your sports?

A: Most likely it is the result of practicing music. Each and every orchestra conductor is under heavy physical strain.

Q: No one can see your face from the audience, but your conducting manner is fantastic, every gesture so very expressive, like an exotic dance. Watching you is as enjoyable as listening to your music. Any comment?

A: Really? As a matter of fact, I try to keep myself from jumping up and down when conducting. You see, the conductor's each gesture carries a lot of information to the orchestra, but mostly every nuance is conveyed by mimiry, body movements, you know.

Q: Mr. Andre, do you really think that Ukrainian musicians have succeeded in putting across the specificity of American music?

A: I must say that your musicians surprised me with their subtle awareness of the music. The Philharmonic's chamber orchestra was like a chameleon, adapting to each new rendition so very quickly and effectively. I enjoyed working with your Chernihiv orchestra. They played typically American music, precisely the way every US musician understands it and does. In general, musicians have a very special mission in this world, promoting understanding among nations, and this concert was another proof of this.