Born in Tasmania, Katerina Nazarova began playing the violin and piano at a very early age and made her solo debut at age 11 with the Tasmanian Symphony Orchestra. Fast forward to 2018, and Katerina joined RNS. As one of the orchestra’s newest members, we were keen to grab five minutes with Katerina, and find out how she’s settling into life in the North East.

Q: What’s your position in the orchestra and when did you join?

A: I’m No.3 Principal First Violin and joined the orchestra recently in October 2018.

Q: Before joining the orchestra, did you already know the region, and if so, how?

A: I had been working for a number of years as a guest player in the orchestra before officially joining, but I only really knew the immediate city area and hadn’t explored beyond…!

Q: Whereabouts in the NE do you live and what made you choose that location?

A: I live a very short walk from Sage Gateshead and have wonderful views of the bridges over the river to Newcastle. I chose this spot because I love being by the water, but I wanted to be within walking distance of Sage Gateshead and Newcastle city centre. Having come from London it feels like a luxury being within walking distance of work or town!

Q: How would you describe the character of the North East in three words?

A: Friendly. Open. Entertaining!

Q: What would be a perfect day of leisure in the region?

A: Going for a cycle and then recover in one of the many fantastic cafes on the Quayside!

Q: Apart from the Sage (!), what is your favourite urban building and why?

A: The shipping containers underneath the Tyne Bridge because they have completely transformed the area (dare I say it used to be a bit dismal before!). It now provides a wonderful area to eat, catch up with people, or relax and watch the world go by. It’s so vibrant and full of life.

Q: Where in the North East do you go to unwind and get away from it all after a long day?

A: I really enjoy just being at home pottering around, baking or cooking.

Q: What’s the North East’s best kept secret?

A: Haven’t found it yet…

Q: Have you learnt anything surprising about the region since you moved here?

A: Just how friendly everyone is!

Q: If you could choose to live anywhere else in the world where would it be?

A: Too many options!!! Though I do love Poppit Sands in Pembrokeshire.