An interview with Thibaud Pavlovic-Hobba, guest violinist

You grew up in Hobart - what memories do you have of your early music-making years in Tassie? 
I have very fond memories of fighting over who got to keep the shiniest coins after intense busking sessions at Salamanca Market every week.

Is the rest of your family musical? 
My dad plays the clarinet and I also had the pleasure of helping and performing an hour long string quartet he composed last year. My mum, although never has played an instrument, has a deep understanding of music and was always ready to help me through a patch of bad intonation practice.

What's your most memorable on stage experience?
I have so many it’s hard to recall a specific example. In my life, the musicians I surround myself with become extremely close friends and it’s always a pleasure to share a stage with them.

You have been playing with an iPad for a while now and it seems to be a fast growing trend among musicians. What are the benefits or downfalls in your opinion?
It’s very useful, you can secretly browse the internet and appear like you’re marking up a score while everyone around you is discussing a poignant musical idea.

Why string quartets?
The repertoire consists of some of the greatest and most varied music ever written and no four other instruments sound better together.

Do you have a preference for standing or sitting in performance?
Definitely standing, I feel a lot freer and more engaged. I haven’t properly figured out how to sit yet, I should really work on that.

Who has had the most influence on you in your development?
I’ve had some great teachers who I still play for every chance I get.

What's your favourite element of the upcoming FQ program?
Brahms quintet with Chris Moore and Flinders Quartet, couldn’t be more excited!!

Thibaud joins Flinders Quartet as guest violinist for concerts during the April to October 2018 period.