Unscripted. Unstaged. Mark Fewer
Unscripted. Unstaged. is an interview series from Laura Murray Public Relations that speaks with fascinating artists, advocates, administrators, and other individuals who keep the Canadian artistic community visible, viable, and vibrant. This week we spoke with musician and educator Mark Fewer. As a violinist, Fewer is renowned for his ability to effortlessly switch between genres and styles as diverse as jazz, classical, avant garde, and more. He is former concertmaster to the Vancouver Symphony Orchestra, and in 2012 won both a Juno (Best Contemporary Jazz Album) and a Prix Opus (Best Contemporary Classical Chamber Album) As an educator, Fewer serves as Professor of Violin at McGill University’s Schulich School of Music.LMPR connected with the artist while he visited the west coast as Distinguished Visiting Artist at the Vancouver Academy of Music.
Q: If we were introduced at a party – what are the three things you would be excited to share about yourself?
My love of sencha tea, kale, wine, and quiet. I guess that’s four.
Q: If we checked your nightstand, what books would we find you reading right now?
Mostly books on architecture and environmental design. Once in a while, I read music-related books. Recently “The Jazz Ear” and “Bad Boy of Music” (about classical composer George Antheil.)
Q: If we checked your computer, what favourite sites would be bookmarked?
New York Times. Epicurious. Mark Bittman. Netflix.
Q: How did you come to do what you do – was there a defining moment you can tell us about?
Less a defining moment and more a series of events that pointed in a similar direction.
Q: When it comes to marketing, is there a particular campaign or a poster, advertisement, or promotion that made a significant impact or that stands out in your mind?
Apple has done an incredible job to make more out of less. It’s a “Yoda” factor – the idea that a small package can hold great power. As well, I’ve always been a fan of John Maeda’s work and philosophy about simplicity and it’s powerful impact in business and life.
Q: Lastly, what inspires you?
Sincerity. A great phrase (not mine) that sums this up is: “Fast is slow with people, and slow is fast.” It basically means that when you give your fullest attention to the moment you are sharing with others, a strong bond is established. It is impossible to create that bond without sincerity behind the action. That sincerity begins with slowness and an acceptance. Then ease in the relationship begins. It’s a beautiful thing.
Categories: MPMG