Melissa Zaraya, Violin

photo by Christian Colberg

When not rehearsing or performing with the BSO, I spend my time…planning travel.

If I had not decided to become a professional musician, I would have become a…CEO!

To unwind, I listen to…Classical, especially piano.

In the car, I listen to…Talk Radio and WBJC.

What is the ring tone on your cell phone?  A trill ring (old fashioned) because I can’t find my two favorites-La Compasita and La Cucaracha.  I was the only person with that one.

What was the last book you read?  I love the English mysteries.  P.D. James is my favorite.  Can’t remember the last book.

What would people be surprised to learn about you?  I’ve been in the BSO so long, everyone knows everything about me!

The craziest thing I have ever done was…sailing in a storm.

My dream is…world travel.

The non-musical accomplishment I am most proud of is…donating to animal causes.

My guilty pleasure is…video poker in Las Vegas.

My favorite vacation spot is…London.

What was the last movie you saw?  I don’t go much to movies.

To prepare for a performance, I…practice.

If I could choose another instrument to play, it would be the…piano.

I also play the…piano.

My most embarrassing musical moment was…when I sneezed and my metal belt broke and flew in pieces across the stage.