This will be your sixth year playing with the Australian World Orchestra. Why are you keen to return?

Playing with the AWO has been one of the most thrilling and heartwarming musical experiences I’ve had. The group has a very special energy that I have never experienced anywhere else.

There is so much excitement, nostalgia and a kind of rejuvenation in reconnecting with old friends and colleagues. Combine that with the fact that the standard of playing is incredibly high, from the front to the back of every section, and it makes for some unforgettable musical experiences.

I’m really excited to play the Mahler 9 this year. I feel certain the AWO under Alex [Briger, the AWO Chief Conductor and Artistic Director] will give the most fervent, committed and passionate performance that we can.

Rebecca Chan holds up her violin.

Rebecca Chan. Photo supplied

Do you have highlights from your time with AWO?

For me, personally, it was such an honour to lead the orchestra under the baton of Zubin Mehta last year. He conducted the first project I played with...