Ania Kordiuk

Violin

How many years have you played with EPO?

I’ve been playing with the EPO since around 2000. I joined about the time my kids started their own music lessons and it reminded me how much I enjoyed playing. Making music alongside such talented musicians is a delight and a privilege.

Why did you choose the violin?

I’m a native “Etobicokian” and was lucky enough to be taught the violin in middle school at Dixon Grove. At that time, all the string players were put into one class and we stuck together for all three years. I remember I wanted to get chosen to play the cello, but the teacher promptly told me I was too small and handed me a violin. Never regretted it … it was easier to walk back and forth to school with a smaller instrument!

What is your experience as a musician?

After grade school, I continued to study the violin privately and became Concert Mistress of my high school orchestra. When I went on to U of T, the first thing I did was explore their music groups. I joined Hart House orchestra and played for many years as a student and alumnus. Playing in orchestras has not only fed my passion for music, but has also been the catalyst in building lifelong friendships.

What do you do outside of the orchestra?

As a performer I’m a true amateur – taking part for pure pleasure. That being said, my background in music inspired my professional career. I was honoured to have held executive roles in leading arts organizations including the Royal Ontario Museum and Tafelmusik. Earlier in my career I also worked at the COC & CanStage. I’ve recently retired, but am still active in the arts community.

How do you feel the violin is best used in the orchestra?

I think that Second Violins are the heart of the orchestra. From a musical perspective, we support so much of what is going on .... usually with interesting melodic orchestrations. There’s something special about being in the middle of the orchestra and experiencing how all the music comes together.

What is your favourite symphony that features violins?

I have to say that my least favourite are Strauss waltzes – we often get stuck with the “rest chuck chuck, rest chuck chuck” notes. But usually, we get wonderful parts. It’s always amazing to play any of the Beethoven or Brahms symphonies, as they both have interesting and challenging parts for the Second Violins. If I had to pick one, I’d say Beethoven 6, the Pastoral, as it has glorious music and a lovely narrative. It takes you on a journey, which is what great music should do.