While Irina was here to judge and give a concert at this year’s GFA here in Southern California, she found some time to chat with All Strings Considered. You’re going to love her playing, she has a beautiful sound, exhibiting a maturity in her playing that is well beyond her years. She never sounds forced or self-conscious. On today’s show you’ll hear her recordings of Bach and Jose Maria Gallardo del Rey, as well as a piece from her brand new CD of music by Russian composers. Hear about her journey to becoming the internationally known and respected concert artist, a journey that hasn’t always been an easy one. You’ll also hear how she prepares for recordings as opposed to concerts, some specific advice for women, her experiences as a new mother and touring artist, and her very personal way of creating her programs.