Meeting My Husband in Paris: A Love Story
It all started at a dinner party in the romantic city of Paris. I caught his eye, and he offered me a ride home. In those short 10 minutes, I was captivated by his originality. He shared his passion for playing the piano, showcasing his dedication to mastering difficult pieces. Soon after, he invited me for lunch at the Dior office, where he surprised me with a tour of the Dior boutique. His attention to detail and impeccable taste made me think he worked in interior design, but I later discovered his true identity.
Balancing Career and Family Life
As a musician, juggling concert life with family responsibilities has been a challenge. I continued to perform while pregnant and when my children were young, although I had to reduce my schedule. The guilt of leaving my little ones behind weighed on me, but as they grew older, I found more opportunities to pursue my passion. I enjoy traveling to countries that are embracing classical music, such as China with its multitude of new concert halls. From playing at International Jazz Day celebrations in Abu Dhabi to touring countries like Azerbaijan, Armenia, Uzbekistan, and Kyrgyzstan, I cherish the chance to connect with diverse audiences.
Exploring Different Musical Genres
While classical music is my main focus, I have always been drawn to other genres like pop and rap. From iconic chansonniers like Michel Fugain and Jacques Brel to legendary bands like the Beatles and Pink Floyd, my musical taste is eclectic. Today, I find rap artists like Kendrick Lamar and Jay-Z intriguing, especially when they blend genres to create innovative sounds. Collaborating with Congolese rapper Gims has been a highlight of my career, showcasing the fusion of classical and modern music styles.
Musical Conversations with Pharrell Williams
Discussing music with Pharrell Williams, the men’s creative director at Louis Vuitton, has been a fascinating experience. Pharrell’s synesthesia, where he perceives colors in response to sounds, adds a unique dimension to his artistic vision. His recent set design and lighting for an opera at the Fondation Louis Vuitton was awe-inspiring, reflecting the constant dissonance in the music. His positivity and gratitude are contagious, and his artistic contributions have earned him numerous Grammy nominations over the years.
Embracing Artistic Expression
While my husband, Daniel, is set to perform at the Fondation Louis Vuitton, I prefer to support him from the sidelines. Keeping our roles separate allows me to focus on my own artistic endeavors. In my book “Au fil des notes…,” published in 2009, I share memorable moments from my musical journey, including a touching gesture from the late Karl Lagerfeld. The gigantic bouquet he sent me for a concert was a symbol of his friendship and support, leaving a lasting impression on me.
As I continue to navigate the world of classical music and explore new artistic collaborations, I am grateful for the love and inspiration that surrounds me. Each performance is a chance to connect with audiences around the globe, sharing the universal language of music. And as I look ahead to future projects and creative endeavors, I am excited to see where this musical journey will take me next.
