The Operative Word with David Hobson

David Hobson and members of the Opera Australia Chorus in The Merry Widow

Why do you do the job that you do? Initially I fell into it and then fell in love with it.

Who has influenced you most professionally? Many of the colleagues, directors, conductors, teachers and coaches I’ve had the privilege to work with have been inordinately gifted, full of valuable knowledge and generally passionate enough to pass it on.

Is there any other profession that you would have liked to have followed?

Still dream of kicking that winning premiership goal for Melbourne in the AFL!

What is your idea of perfect happiness? As someone said ‘Happiness is a direction not a place’, so to be on the path of not ‘wanting’ and ‘just being’ would be perfect.

David Hobson

If you could have dinner with a historical figure, who would it be? The JCs – Jesus Christ (the meal would be plentiful) or Joseph Campbell the 20^th-Century mythologist/philosopher – a real tribal elder, great thinker and great heart.

What is your greatest extravagance? Playing football, tennis, surfing, HBO dramas and massage.

One thing you regret is… I’m working on not thinking about those, but perhaps there was the time…

If you could have any opera character as a friend, who would it be, and why? Orphée.  Could hopefully glean some of his great singing/song writing skills and form a band – the ancient Greek Lennon and McCartney if you will!

Who or what is the love of your life? The Who – My wife Amber and children Madi and Sam. The What – Music.

What are you optimistic about? The next generation

You would like to devote more time to…Writing, languages and being still.

What is your favourite food? Any Sunday roast (Winter is upon us), which is always a challenge as my daughter is a vegetarian.

David Hobson

What is your most treasured possession? Not sure I have one but perhaps old family photos and movies.

Which is the opera that got you hooked? Rigoletto. I remember seeing a VSO production with John Bolton Wood as Rigoletto at the Palais in Melbourne back in the 80s. Couldn’t believe how perfect Act IV was.

Which opera do you never need to hear again? I don’t ‘need’ to hear operas like La bohème or Così again but I actually want to.

If there’s one quote that really speaks to you it’s…“Do you have a question? Say yes!” – Joseph Campbell

What is your idea of misery? I’d be pretty miserable if I wasn’t doing something in music. I’ve been very lucky thus far.

You still hope to…Conquer fear.

Which characteristics do you most admire in others? Courage, compassion, integrity/honesty, humility and a ripping sense of humour.

You feel guilty when you think about… are you really trying to get into my head that far? ­­

What type of holiday do you most enjoy? I’m not good at sitting still so surfing uncrowded, three-foot, clean waves anywhere warm sounds pretty good.

If you could change one thing about yourself, what would it be? Be more decisive – actually I’m not sure about that.

Who is your favourite band? The Beatles – pretty much defined pop music.

David Hobson and Amelia
Farrugia in The Merry Widow

You spend too much money on…Music technology. Started with a four- track recorder in the 80s and haven’t stopped! There’s always something ‘über’ expensive to keep you on the bleeding edge.

Your greatest achievement has been…I’d have to say my children.

The book everyone loved but you could not finish was... The Lord of the Rings. There’s also a pile beside my bed.

What is your favourite kitchen appliance? Kettle. Big on tea.

How do you stay up to date with new technology and trends? The kids pretty much dictate the necessity to be on top of all the new communication tech but I must confess my wife does most of that. Change is always confronting.

Who is your favourite heartthrob? Julie Christie