Who is Nick Deutsch?
I am an Israeli born Australian, married to a French woman currently living in Germany. I’m a musician, food and wine enthusiast, father to a beautiful daughter, currently Artistic Director of the Australian National Academy of Music (ANAM) in Melbourne, and Professor of Oboe at the Hochschule für Musik in Leipzig, Germany.
What would you do differently to what you do now?
Speak better French and spend more time at home with my family. Otherwise I wouldn’t change anything.
Who inspires you and why?
I am inspired by anyone who is passionate about something.
What would you do to make a difference in the world?
Introduce mandatory afternoon sleeps.
Favourite holiday destination and why?
My two favourite cities are Tokyo and Istanbul, but I usually need a holiday after spending a few days visiting either one, so I suppose I would have to say my favourite ‘holiday’ destination would be our House in in Burgundy, France. It’s in a very small village, with no internet or mobile reception. I can just read, cook, enjoy nature and the company of my family. It’s the only place I can really switch off and recharge the batteries.
When friends come to town, what attraction would you take them to, and why?
The Australian National Academy of Music (ANAM), the South Melbourne Market, followed a meal at one of the many amazing restaurants in town.
What are you currently reading?
The Hidden Life of Trees by Peter Wohlleben and Musicophilia by Oliver Sacks.
What are you currently listening to?
I love listening to music and between my iPhone, iPad and laptop. I have a multitude of music with me all the time. From Amy Winehouse to Frank Zappa, Bach to Boulez. It’s all there.
Happiness is?
A cheese platter, red wine, good friends and no rehearsal the next morning.
What does the future hold for you?
Long term, who knows. Artists are always needing to reinvent themselves, you never know in what direction fate may take you… But in 2017 I’ll be dividing my time between ANAM in Melbourne, and the Hochschule für Musik in Leipzig, Germany. I’ve also got concerts next year in Japan, Hong Kong, Mexico, USA, Austria, Germany, Czech Republic, Israel and France. When I won’t have my oboe in my hands, I’ll be spending as time as possible with my family, friends and with my cooking club in Leipzig.
Nick has recently announced the Australian National Academy of Music’s 2017 Season – a spectacular journey for audiences. From the French Baroque through the iconoclastic genre busting of Frank Zappa to the extraordinary sound world created by Jonny Greenwood and Krzysztof Penderecki – it will showcase compositional innovation and the creative ability of the ANAM musicians. For more information, visit: www.anam.com.au for details.
Image: Nick Deutsch