Canadian Viola Society

CVS Young Artist Interview: Christoph Chung

—

by

Ryan
in

You’ll be playing Paganini’s Sonate per la Grande?

Yes, I am!

It’s a big deal as a violist to solo with an orchestra.

I’m really looking forward to working with my peers.

Not many violists have played Paganini’s Sonate per la Grande with an orchestra. Why do you think violists shy away from Paganini?

I think it is because there is this misconception that violists lean towards more lyrical melodies and pieces that don’t include a huge requirement of technique. But I find that if you can find a a way to present your musicality and lyricism even through all of that technique, you can show something wonderful.

In an interview with William Primrose, David Dalton asked about the reason behind recording the Paganini caprices on viola.

Primrose replied, “I played, essayed, Paganini caprices on the viola to do what the French call épaté allez-vous jouer, or rather to surprise my colleagues more than anything; to show the other guys where they got off. That’s only was—just youthful pride and ambition.”

Honestly, same!

Should learning Paganini on viola become more ‘mainstream’?

I think it should become more mainstream for the reason of improving technique in a way that we are not used to.

When you say, ‘improving technique,’ are you referring to the right hand?

I am talking mostly of left hand technique due to the sheer amount of jumps and double stops. Right hand technique is also important; however, to coordinate every note being played precisely and in the right way.

Does it help to play on a cut-out shaped viola?

It helps to reach higher notes and double stops with greater facility, but it is not necessary.

Do you find tenths manageable on your viola?

They are definitely easier on my viola but take a lot of work.

How many hours do you practice each day in preparation for pre-screening auditions this month?

Up to three hours depending on what I need to get done. However long it takes to get what I want done.

Do you plan on doing competitions in the near future?

I’m not really one for competitions and I usually prefer to just play for myself without comparisons. That being said, I haven’t figured out which ones, but I will be considering a few later on.

What is it like to study viola at uOttawa?

I really enjoy the relationship I have with Professor van der Sloot. It feels like one big family and that I can trust him as well as many of my peers. Everyone is very welcoming and warm.

Lastly, for viola nerds who like to talk about strings, what is your favourite brand of viola strings?

It took me a while to figure out what worked best on my instrument. My old setup was a Larsen A, Pirazzi D and G, with a Spirocore C. Nowadays, I have discovered Thomastik Infeld Pi’s and they’ve quickly become my strings of choice.

Best of luck with Sonate per la Grande on Nov 26th!

Thanks!