Christi Salisbury
Q : How were you first attracted to music? How many years have you played?
A : I was five years old when I first heard another girl play the violin. I begged my parents for 6 months to get me a violin, and finally they did. They told me later that the other girl that inspired me wasn’t even very good. I guess there was something about the violin that enchanted me that day and has ever since. My parents worked full time in children’s Christian ministry. They presented programs with ventriloquism, puppets, magic and fluorescent flannelgraph. As soon as I could play a hymn, I played my violin for these programs all summer long.
Q : What's your favorite part of being a musician?
A : I am so blessed I am able to spend my time doing my favorite thing which is playing the violin! Here are a few reasons why:
First, I love being with people, but I also enjoy solitude! Music performance gives me ample opportunity to be in both modes.
Second, I am happy that I am able to be occupied by something which uses my complete person; my brain, body and heart.
Thirdly, playing music is endlessly interesting because exploring the violin and music can never be exhausted; I also enjoy the interchange between analysis and creativity, and both playing and teaching allows me to move freely between those ways of being.
Finally, reflecting the beauty and joy of God into His creation is my greatest pleasure and satisfaction.
Q : Is there a musical instrument that you adore? A certain brand? Why?
A : Yes! It is out there somewhere! Discovering and acquiring high-level performance instruments is a years or even decades-long process. I am hoping to purchase another baroque violin and another modern violin in the near-ish future that will better allow me to express the sound I have in mind.
Q : Would you share a tip on how to balance life's responsibilities with what you love to do (such as playing music)?
A : Haha! Work all the time! Being a musician is not an easy life. It is very busy and can be stressful, as many professions are–especially with children! It requires a great deal of sacrifice, but we all make sacrifices in one way or another, and this one brings me great joy and helps me to best share the talents God has given me. Being a musician is also a job. Most people have a job and have to balance other aspects of life. It is sometimes tough for all of us. I’ve always fought for practice by doing it first, every day. I practice 3 hours every day, and that happens immediately after I read my Bible in the morning. I practice and teach from home, so I’m able to maintain productivity by doing house chores, preparing meals, etc. during necessary breaks.
Q : Do you provide educational lessons, instruct students or volunteer in the community?
A : I teach at Salisbury Strings, my private teaching studio where I offer comprehensive music preparatory training in theory and musicianship as well as violin performance technique. I also play regularly at my church (All Saints REPC in Lynchburg) and I volunteer at the Lynchburg Humane Society as a dog walker.
Q : I see you serve as “Concertmaster” for Roanoque Baroque. For our audience, would you describe what happens in that role?
