One World Symphony = Our Artists = Profiles = Rita Markova

Birth Place: Zaporozhe, Ukraine

Education: Graduated from NYU, Bachelor of Music in Vocal Performance

1. Are any of your family members musicians? If so, what do they do?
My mom is a classically trained pianist and played in theatres in Odessa, Ukraine and used to teach.

2. What has been the highlight of your One World Symphony career to date?
My highlight was performing Sandman from Hansel and Gretel for 600 students during an outreach program we did in Brooklyn Heights. They were such a great audience to have, and it felt very worthwhile to bring operatic music to children.

3. What would you say is your favorite piece of music?
Anything by Rachmaninoff.

4. What's the best thing about One World Symphony?
My favorite moment was when Sung Jin got really into the music during a chorus section of the Magic Flute. It was great to see a conductor be moved by the performance.

...And the worst moment (if any)?
I'm not sure.

5. What music do you listen to in the car or subway?
I usually listen to folk/classic rock type of stuff: Beatles, Bob Dylan, Joni Mitchell, Pink Floyd.

6. What is your favorite drink?
A Margarita of course! (That is my full name)

7. What was the most recent book you read?
Junkie by William Burroughs

8. When you do have some free time, how do you relax?
I spend free time hanging out with friends, or being by myself at home... reading/listening to music/ watching a movie, etc.

9. Why do you continue to perform with One World Symphony when you can perform with other ensembles that would offer more financial benefits?
One World Symphony gives singers the opportunity to sing great repertoire with a fabulous orchestra.

10. If you had the opportunity to time travel, when and where would you prefer to live?
The Elizabethan Era might be a good start, so long as I were part of the nobility and wore gowns daily.

11. If you weren't a musician what would you be?
I would be a homeopathic physician or other kind of doctor

12. Why would you recommend to other musicians and public to participate with One World Symphony?
It's a rare opportunity to listen to and perform classical music in an interactive environment without the formality that usually accompanies this art form.

13. What are your hobbies?
Reading, yoga, hiking, listening to music, playing guitar/piano, etc.