AJ Nilles, viola
Former violist with the San Diego Symphony
How long were you in the San Diego Symphony?
2.5 years, I arrived in May of 2012
Where are you now? And how long have you been there?
Berlin, Germany since January 1, 2015. And I will be joining the Berlin Philharmonic in April.
Do you remember your last concert with SDSO?
Yes, Rachmaninov 2nd Symphony. It’s such a beautiful and melancholy – yet uplifting – piece. It seemed somehow very appropriate as a goodbye to all my wonderful colleagues!
Favorite musical moments from your time with SDSO?
Working with Gilbert Varga was a sincere treat. Also my first concert with SDSO was Beethoven 7th symphony – a piece always gives me chills and makes me proud to be a human being.
Favorite hang out spots when you were in San Diego?
Sole Luna Cafe (of course), anywhere in Little Italy, and Carnitas Snack Shack. Also, my old neighbors’ (Leyla Zamora and Michael Molnau) house!
What do you miss most about San Diego?
It would be too easy to say the weather, so in addition to that I’d say the relaxed atmosphere and simple beauty of the geography. Also the exceptional restaurants and bars.
What would be your first restaurant/food joint if you came to visit?
Either Carnitas Snack Shack or La Fachada
Is there something that San Diego has that you wish Berlin had?
A decent burrito!!!!