Simply Three is ecstatic to announce the arrival of our new violinist, Alex Weill (read her impressive bio here). We decided to get the full scoop on Alex, so read our exclusive interview with her below:
Interview with Alex Weill
Where are you from?
I am from Woodbridge, Connecticut. I currently live in Manhattan, New York.
How long have you played the violin?
Since I was three years old. So 23 years!
Do you play any other instruments?
I play the piano. I started learning it when I was eight years old. I also play the tenor steel pan and played in a steel pan band with my mom and sister.
Why did you choose a career in music?
From an early age, my parents and music teachers noticed that I had a very good ear and I was able to learn music quickly. Musicality came naturally. I was able to really internalize the emotions the music portrayed and deliver those emotions to an audience. I was blessed to have such supportive parents and I would never be where I am today without them.
What is your favorite genre of music to listen to?
I love all genres of music! The music I listen to generally depends on the type of mood I'm in at the time. I tend to be a nostalgic music listener; I love songs that remind me of past experiences, especially from when I was growing up. So if I had to choose, my favorite genre to listen to would have to be music of the 90's.
Do you have any hobbies? What are they?
I have a passion for different types of cuisine. That comes from my dad's interest which he has shared with me and my siblings and also from being a part of my mom's large Filipino family. I love reading about different, bizarre, yet tasty food and where to find it in whatever location I may be in. Having grown up by the water, I love to fish and go clamming. To be able to be out on the water or on the beach, catch fresh seafood and have my family cook it up is so satisfying for me! I also have a fascination with admiring different environments, from rocks to trees and how scenery changes depending on the location. How artists incorporate their environment into their art or incorporate their art into an environment is so amazing to me. I can never get over how mesmerizing New York City street art is and I'm so lucky to have that culture right outside my doorstep.
How did you get in touch with Simply Three?
I met Nick through another string group we perform with called ALKALI, which performs throughout the US and internationally. Nick called me and told me about Simply Three and what they do and I was extremely honored and excited to be thought of for such an incredible opportunity.
Do you come from a musical family?
Yes. It’s been in my blood on both my mother's and father's side. My maternal grandmother and my dad's cousin are classical pianists. My uncle on my mother's side is a professional saxophonist and educator. My cousin is also a professional cellist in New York City. My sister plays the cello, my brother plays the piano and drums, and my youngest brother plays the trumpet.
What is your favorite performance you have played?
Rocking out with Jay Z, Alicia Keys, and Nas for two sold out shows in Carnegie Hall to benefit the Shawn Carter Foundation, with my parents in the audience.
What is your favorite food?
I love Asian cuisine especially Japanese.
What is your favorite city that you have played in?
My favorite city where I have performed in was Shanghai, China. I loved the juxtaposition of the old city with the modern and futuristic architecture by its side. The outpouring of tradition and culture was captivating.
What's your favorite TV show?
My favorite TV show was Breaking Bad and I love Anthony Bourdain's food and travel series.
What's one of the top things on your bucket list?
I would love to go spear fishing for spiny lobster in the Florida Keys.
