Lisa Batiashvili in an interview

"I now feel more at home in Germany than anywhere else."

Lisa Batiashvili was born in Georgia to a violinist and a pianist. When the country was on the brink of civil war, the family moved to Germany in 1991. At the age of 12, Lisa began studying at the Hamburg University of Music and Theatre before transferring to Munich. In 1995, she became the youngest participant to win second prize at the Sibelius Competition in Helsinki. Shortly afterward, she was accepted into the BBC's "New Generation Artists" program in Great Britain. Her interpretation and recording of the Sibelius Violin Concerto garnered particular attention.

Classicpoint.ch: You emigrated from Georgia to Germany as a child. How did you experience that initial period in the West?
With mixed feelings, because the difference between the German and Georgian ways of life was enormous. But at the same time, we escaped the most difficult period in Georgia in 1991 and were aware of how lucky we were. We met wonderful people in Hamburg who helped and supported us tremendously. We slowly got used to the new country, learned the language, etc. Now I feel more "at home" in Germany than anywhere else.

What is your relationship with Georgia today?
I love my childhood homeland. Sometimes I feel, like many of my compatriots, that I have to protect my country from evil. I know it's utter madness, but I have such a nostalgic and emotional connection to Georgia. In the 90s, hardly anyone in Europe knew Georgia. I was always a little sad about that. Now it has become a country where there is much to discover and admire. Unfortunately, there has been a political upheaval in recent years that seriously threatens the progress and stability of the country. I am worried about this and wish for a peaceful, contented, strong, and constructive society.

You received violin lessons from your father from the age of two. Do you remember that time?
Yes, quite well.

You have two children yourself. Did they also receive lessons from you when they were two years old?
Not at all. They do some music, but more as one activity among many others. Music is beautiful and natural for them, but at the same time, it's the "thing" that keeps taking Mom and Dad away from home.

What are your thoughts on teaching? Would a position at a university appeal to you, or would you prefer to focus on your solo career?
I've had to decline several professorship offers in Germany because when I'm home, I want to dedicate my time to my family and normal life. Perhaps the right time will come later.

You studied with Ana Chumachenco. What is so special about her teaching, which has already produced many star violinists, such as Julia Fischer, Arabella Steinbacher , and Susanna Yoko Henkel?
She simply cultivates the individual personality and provides a solid foundation in violin technique without leaving anything out. Furthermore, she is one of the most generous, wise, and warm-hearted people I have ever met.

Your husband is an oboist, and you have two children. How do you manage childcare during your many concert tours?
It works quite well now. But it took years to find the right balance. Our parents have always been a great help.

Magnus Lindberg composed a violin concerto for you, which you premiered. How did that come about, and did you have any influence on the creative process?
I had very little influence on the creative process. I consciously work with composers I admire and trust in their talent.

Do you have any other passions besides playing the violin?
Yes: cooking, watching football, jogging, and enjoying life.


Interview by Florian Schär | Classicpoint.ch | December 1, 2014

Next concerts

03/10/2027 - Paavo Järvi & Lisa Batiashvili
03/11/2027 - Paavo Järvi & Lisa Batiashvili
03/12/2027 - Paavo Järvi & Lisa Batiashvili
03/21/2027 - Kosmos Chamber Music: Lisa Batiashvili & Giorgi Gigashvili