Top-selling US soloist: I take my little girls to other people’s concerts

To the bewilderment of the music industry, America’s top-selling classical artist this year was  not one of its mega-hyped stars but an exceptionally hardworking, close-focused mother of two. According to our sources, Anne Akiko Meyers sold more than 10,000 units of two releases, which is more than any of the Grammy nominated classical records.

Hot off the mark, our SanFran friend Elijah Ho tracked Anne down for an interview to see how she did it. He also asked a leading question, pace Kyung Wha Chung, about parents who bring little kids to grown-up concerts.

Here’s what Anne had to say:

My kids are two and four, and they have frequently attended dress rehearsals and concerts where I have been performing. Of course, they have also attended performances of friends and colleagues. We’ve learned that it’s helpful to sit in the back of the hall, so that you can quietly slip away in case of any potential emergencies. Snacks and coloring books are also helpful, but even then, I am usually breaking into a sweat worrying that my daughters will behave.

Recently, my daughter was busy drawing while I rehearsed, but afterward, was thrilled to be up on stage, waving her hands like a conductor. I consider these moments some of the great perks of my profession, and I love seeing them and other children at any classical performances.

Full interview here.