If you could go back to work in a completely different job for 2024, what would it be?
I’d come back next year in the role of my dog, Pablo.  He seems to have the most luxurious and responsibility-free existence I have seen.

What is your most vivid Christmas memory?
In 2016, my stepdaughter who was 10 at the time, and my late grandfather who was 94, were next to each other at the dinner table for their first Christmas together in Italy. They had a lengthy (and I’m sure very interesting) conversation – with neither of them speaking a common language.

Who is someone to watch in 2024?
Composer: Harry Sdraulig

Do you have any Christmas/New Year traditions that are funny or unusual?
Every Christmas Eve we MUST watch a Muppets Christmas Carol (or Christmas Day can’t happen).

Crystal ball: What is your big prediction for 2024?
There will be more classical music lovers in Queensland than ever before.

Any questions of your own? Who would you like to ask something of and what is it?

Dear Beethoven,

If you had modern instruments, like valved French horns or cromatic trumpets, would you use them? How different would your symphonies sound?

Should we expect El Nino or La Nina next year?
Hopefully neither!

Do you have a New Year’s resolution?
More pilates. From a current streak of zero classes in 2023 that shouldn’t be difficult.

Is there anybody you don’t wish to bump into in 2024?
Saint Peter/the devil.

What is your biggest dream for 2024?
After the past few years, it would be a delight for everything to be peaceful and calm.

What is your biggest fear for 2024?
Another year of calamitous surprises.

What will be the biggest challenge for you in 2024?
Mahler 7 for the QSO opening, but also prepared and excited.

Will you be staying up to greet the new year?
Always! Also asleep by 12:05am.