Behind the Scenes: A Viola Player's Perspective

Hello everyone. Today I would like to share with you the behind-the-scenes world as seen through the eyes of a viola player. I have played the viola in an orchestra. I would like to share with you the story of how music is created through small episodes from behind the scenes that you do not usually get to see.

Rehearsal, a nerve-wracking time
Rehearsals before a performance are always filled with tension. Under the strict eye of the conductor, we polish our music. One day at rehearsal, when we were having trouble getting the notes right in a particularly difficult passage, the conductor once softened the mood with a joke. That one comment helped ease the tension between us, and the result was a wonderful performance. Behind the scenes, such small communication makes a big difference.

2. little heroes behind the scenes
The success of a performance does not depend solely on the performers. The staff members who support the performers in the unseen places, such as lighting, sound, and stage setup, are indispensable. One night, a part of the viola broke just before the performance, but the backstage technical staff quickly repaired it and we were able to perform without incident. They are truly our little heroes.

3. a sense of accomplishment after the performance
The moment of curtain call is when all the hard work pays off, no matter how tired you are. The warm applause from the audience turns all the rehearsals, the tension before the performance, and the little problems that occurred backstage into something meaningful. For this moment, we practice every day and support each other backstage.

I hope this blog will give you a glimpse into the world behind the scenes. Beautiful music in a music venue is the result of the passion of each performer and the efforts of all the people who support them even when they are not visible. I hope you will remember this behind-the-scenes story the next time you visit an orchestra concert. Thank you very much.