Cellist Ofra Harnoy's Top Vacay Spots, Eateries in LA, and Other Favorites
We’ve said it before, and we’ll say it again—as classical music enthusiasts, there’s something so special to us about getting to know our favorite classical music artists. From their day-to-day routines to their mantras for performing to their must-eat-at restaurants, we love to know what our favorite classical music artists love to love.
That’s why we’re proud to offer one of our newest feature sections in Classical Post, Artist Favorites. In this section, we get to really get to know the best-of-the-best classical musicians—we find out what they love, what they can’t live without, and what makes them tick!
Today, we’re taking an inside look at personal favorites from Ofra Harnoy, a celebrated, Canadian cellist who has recorded more than 40 solo albums; has studied with William Pleeth, Vladimir Orloff, and Mstislav Rostropovich; has given concerts on five continents; and has played at the request of Prince Charles, President Bill Clinton, three Canadian Prime Ministers, and several times for the Imperial Japanese Family.
Ofra Harnoy’s latest project, Back to Bach, is an album that presents a number of tried and true Baroque favorites on the cello. Though in the past, Ofra had worked with accompanying harpsichord, chamber orchestra, or organ, she chose to use brass as accompaniment for some of the works on this album. Additionally, she’s created a cello ensemble through overdubbing and multi-tracking techniques—ultimately, using modern technology to explore this centuries-old music in an entirely new light.
Join Ofra as she gives you a first-hand look at some of her favorite things!
Where Do You Love to Eat When in Los Angeles?
In Los Angeles, I love going to Crossroads Kitchen, Shojin, Sage, Plant Food + Wine, Gracias Madre, and the wonderful New York import By Chloe.
If You Had a Dream Place to Live, Where Would it Be?
Since December 2018, Mike (my husband) and I have been living in beautiful St. Johns, NL. With my touring and recording schedule, this is the perfect oasis to come home to and enjoy with my husband.
What Are your Favorite Places to Visit or Vacation?
We love taking short trips to New York when time permits!
One of my favorite places to visit (so far) has been Croatia—I plan to go back there soon!
My husband and I usually take a vacation in the Caribbean sometimes during the colder months of the Canadian winter. So far, we’ve traveled to Cuba, Mexico, Barbados, Antigua, and Jamaica recently—we plan to go there at least once a year!
On a Non-Performing Night, What Do You Love to Do?
Mike and I put a lot of energy into our performances. So, on our nights off, we’ll generally go somewhere nice to have a relaxed dinner and then spend a quiet evening back at the hotel afterward.
