Sebastian Liebig, principal violin

When did you join the National Symphony Orchestra?

2005.

Tell us your favourite NSO story/memory so far.

There are a few… one of them is when we performed a Mozart symphony and, just before the downbeat of the second movement, in complete silence, my belly made a very loud noise. At that moment the conductor paused with his hands mid-air and hesitated, and my colleagues on both sides of me nearly choked trying not to laugh! 

What do you enjoy doing when you’re not playing with the orchestra?  

Spending time with my family and dog, reading, watching movies, learning new things. 

What made you decide to pursue a career in music?

I had no choice. My parents were musicians!

Who is your musical idol?

I have a few, but if I had to choose just one, then David Oistrakh.

What is the best piece of advice you ever received – musical or general?

Try always to be kind and respectful.

You’re stranded on a desert island. You’re allowed 3 CDs and 1 book. What would they be, and why?

Bach’s Goldberg Variations, Schubert’s Quintet for Two Cellos, music from the movie Top Gun. Book: How to Survive on a Desert Island.