Interview by Flóra Tersztyánszky, originally published in “Papageno” | June 29, 2025
This year, violinist Amira Abouzahra received the prestigious Junior Prima Award in the category of Hungarian musical arts, supported by MVM Zrt. We spoke with the young artist, currently based in Vienna, about her career path, the meaning of success, and her plans for the future.
– Was it always clear to you that you would choose a musical career?
Both of my parents are pianists, so I grew up surrounded by music. It felt natural that I would also become a musician. Even as a very young child, I knew I wanted to be a violinist. Around the age of four, I also wanted to dance, but we couldn’t find a suitable dance school—so music became the obvious path. I still dance today, just as a hobby.
– You’ve received several awards and performed with renowned musicians. What does success mean to you?
I’m always grateful for awards—they serve as encouragement and confirmation that I’m on the right path. But for me, the greatest success isn’t the prizes. It’s when I get to play with musicians I admire and from whom I can learn.
– How did it feel to receive the Junior Prima Award?
It was an enormous honor to receive such a distinguished award. Hungary holds an important place in the musical world, and its violin tradition has deep roots—just think of Joseph Joachim or Leopold Auer. It means a lot to me that András Keller, who continues this legacy, was also on the jury. That makes it feel all the more special to be among the recipients. I’m very grateful to MVM for supporting young artists through this recognition.
– Do you have any role models?
I admire István Várdai very much—he is also my mentor here in Vienna. I look up to him not just as a musician, but as a person. His perspective is inspiring—how he can always approach a piece with fresh eyes and new ideas. Last year, I had the chance to perform with Zubin Mehta, who is a living legend and someone I respect deeply. I should also mention András Keller, with whom I’ve had the chance to work many times.
– You’ve traveled extensively. Is there a place that’s especially close to your heart?
I always love coming back to Vienna after concerts. Of course, it’s exciting to travel, but returning home feels especially good. If I had to name a more distant place, I’d say China. I visited last year, and it was an incredible experience—especially because there were so many young people in the audience who came up to me after the concerts with questions and comments. It was heartwarming and inspiring. The tour went very well, and I enjoyed every moment—plus, the food in China is amazing, so I’d happily return any time.
– Is there a place you’ve never been to, but dream of visiting?
I would love to go to Australia—I’ve never been. I also hope to perform more in Africa. I’m half Egyptian, so I’ve played in Egypt and once in Oman, but I would really like to bring classical music to other African countries as well.
(Photo: Amira Abouzahra, pianist Attila Szaniszló, and cimbalom artist Áron Horváth at the Junior Prima Award ceremony)
– What are your current projects?
This summer I’ll be working on some beautiful projects in Hungary. I’ll be performing at both the Festival Academy and Kaposfest, where I’ll play Chausson’s violin concerto with Zoltán Fejérvári and the Motus Quartet, as well as Mendelssohn’s D minor double concerto, also with Zoltán. These invitations are truly an honor, and I look forward to them with great joy.
– What are your artistic goals for the next few years?
I’d like to keep building my repertoire and perform more with my sister Mariam. I also play the viola, which I’d like to spend more time with. But most of all, my greatest wish is to continue playing with musicians I love and respect.
– Do you and your sister perform together often?
Lately we’ve had fewer chances to play together because we both receive solo invitations, so we’re often apart. But whenever we can, we perform together. Playing with Mariam is something very close to my heart—it’s a wonderful feeling to share the stage with her because we instinctively know how the other will respond.
(Photo: Amira and her sister, Mariam in Virtuosos classical music talent show in 2018)
– What keeps you motivated?
Chamber music always gives me energy. When I’m home, I often invite friends over to play together—these sessions always recharge me.