How do you mostly listen to music?
I have rehearsals every day for six hours with musicians from all over the world, and this is what I listen to. Sometimes, just sometimes, I listen to music on my computer when travelling.
What was the first ever record or cd you bought?
You know, it was some time ago! One of the first would have been the Bach Cello Suites played by Pablo Casals - probably in about 1958 or ‘59. He was the greatest Catalan cellist.
What was the last piece of music you bought?
A recording by a young Spanish composer called Bernat Vivancos. He writes a little in the style of Arvo Pärt.
What’s your musical guilty pleasure?
Everything that is inspiring, spiritual, melancholic, internal: music by John Dowland would be one.
If you found yourself with six months free to learn a new instrument, what would you choose?
Percussion - it would be my only chance of playing something correctly in so short a time! Also, it’s like the heart in human life, essential and vital.
Is applauding between movements acceptable?
If there is something so extraordinary or beautiful, then why not accept people’s approval? Spontaneous thanks makes a connection with the audience. Not applauding is a recent convention only.
What single thing would improve the format of the classical concert?
Talking. Musicians sometimes create a barrier and protect themselves from the audience - they just play with no joy, no pleasure, no connection. They must talk, smile, share their joy with the audience. Always.
What’s been your most memorable live music experience as an audience member?
The first time I heard Stravinsky’s The Rite of Spiring when I was about 21. The incredible, vital music, the extraordinary mixture of harmonies. It is something I shall never forget.
We’re giving you a time machine: what period, or moment in musical history, would you travel to and why?
Ancient Greece. We know so much about their art, literature and sculpture but so little about what they were doing with music.
Do you enjoy musicals? Do you have a favourite?
Yes, some, but I have to confess I have no time to go. If I did, it would be one with music by George Gershwin.
Which conductor or performer of the past do you most wish you could have worked with?
Which non-classical musician would you love to work with?
Bobby McFerrin - he has an incredible voice.
What do you sing in the shower?
Haha, there is no singing in the shower, only cries when the water is too hot or too cold.
Jordi Savall performs his Celtic Viol project with Hespèrion XXI and the Co Clare fiddler, Martin Hayes, at Gregynog Festival, Wales, on 19 June at 2.30pm.
