all utopians

Laura Lunansky

Violin
Bruckner. Symphony No. 9 (May, 2024)
Mahler. Symphony No. 5 (October, 2024)

Laura held the principal second violin position during the Bruckner Ninth’s Tour. She is a frequent collaborator with leading ensembles such as the Mahler Chamber Orchestra, Dresdner Festspielorchester, and the Rotterdam Philharmonic Orchestra, among others. In her interview, she reveals Utopia’s rehearsal process and offers insights on finding inspiration in everyday life.

What unique elements about Utopia make it a standout in your memory?

I am incredibly sensitive to the energy of people around me. I always gravitate towards artistic projects where everyone is very involved and engaged. This is why Utopia is so magnetic. Each person is treated equally important, and everyone’s energy matters. My strongest memories of my experience are from moments that happened during rehearsals. Teodor can sing a phrase with so much detail, for a melodic string player this is such a beautiful and fulfilling challenge to achieve. And then there is a magical moment during the rehearsal process when you feel like we’ve transitioned from individuals to a single collective mind. This gives me goosebumps.

What inspires your work?

My inspiration comes from the details and charm of everyday life. To me, art is not an escape from the mundane. It is an ode to being alive.

What qualities define a truly great conductor in your opinion?

To my mind, a good conductor has an infinite curiosity to interpret a score, a charismatic passion to bring this interpretation to as many people as possible, and a respectful and dignified way of working with the orchestra, so the musicians will want to dedicate themselves to make this vision come to life.

What aspect of your work excites you the most and keeps you engaged?

What I love most about my work is the diversity of artistic projects I encounter. The constant shift in perspective reveals the multitude of paths and to express oneself, work, and perform.

Utopia in three words?

Dedication, detail, energy.