Interview with Vladimir Jablokov
It's been a long way, don't you think?
Come on! This is just the beginning. I feel like Like Bono who did it many years ago, and it wolud be fine to follow his road (he laughs).
So how did you make it from Grafton Street?
I've been a really bad child. You know. Never satisfied. So Grafton was just the first stop in Ireland for me. I wanted more. I grew up with four brothers and my sister in Slovakia, so you always feel like you want to beat them or be a bit more recognized.
I've heard this rumours about your neighbours complaining all the time...
Oh yes. We are definitely not the best neighbours to be around. Music was everywhere. People were going mad, because it was 24/7. There was not a single moment when none of us was playing. And it doesnt seem to change anytime soon. But that's a life of a musician.
Your critics say that you're a complicated personality. How about that driving cars at a very young age, risking your life as often as possible?
Come on? Where did you get that?! But i have to admit i did some stupid things in the past. And talking about driving I just didn't have driving licence and needed to be on time (laughs).
Never got caught by the police?
Just once. I was like eleven? Twelve? They were trying to catch me. It was a kind of action movie scene, but they didn't catch me anyway. But it helped me to realize what i was doing. I nearly lost it and i was happy to escape.
You almost lost it twice didn't you? You almost quit music. Why?
I've had enough. All this practising, predictable life... But I got back on track soon after. Fortunately I decided to continue with what I love and now I don't regret a single minute.
What was the breaking point?
I realized that this is my life. It was kind of predictable anyway. My parents and even my grandparents were musicians so it is in my blood. And you can not escape your own blood. And then it went very fast. I kicked most of the guys from the previous ensamble and formed Slovak Festival Orchestra where I brought together most talented musicians from Slovakia.
Sounds like its not easy to come along with you?
Well, this is a very quick world. Not everyone can cope with my demands. But do you know what I am really proud of? I had people from The Slovak Philharmonic Orchestra which is the biggest institution back home who asked me to play with me. A couple of years ago I was not even good for them to look at me.
Some compare you to Andre Rieu. What kind of a feeling is it for a guy who just turned 23?
He is different. I've got my own style. But yes. This is one of the ways.
Vladimir Jablokov, personal
What is your biggest pleasure besides music?
Race cars as I was always addicted to speed.
Who are your favourite artists?
Since I mix different styles in my music it varies from Jasha Heifetz to Stephane Grapelli.
Who would you like to be compared to?
Anybody, who is better then me. In reality it means that I wouldn t like to be compared to a cheap-effect artists and their artificial performances.
Favorite food?
Leg of Lamb.
Best way of relaxing?
It has to be fishing. I do it since the age of five and its the best way to get out of the everyday busy lifestyle I lead.
Dream car?
Subaru Imprezza STI. I did Imprezza a couple of times and I always fell in love again and again.
Life creed?
Do what you like to do. Its one of the safest ways to stay happy even if its not always the easiest way.
Most expensive thing you own?
My violin. And I dont mean the actual price of the instrument.
Best place to live?
Anywhere, where I can meet good people so it is basically everywhere.
What is your never?
I would never prefer commercial aspects over quality.